CVE-2004-0205 in IIS
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Microsoft Internet Information Server (IIS) 4.0 allows local users to execute arbitrary code via the redirect function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2025
Microsoft Internet Information Server 4.0 contains a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in its redirect function that enables local attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the web server's redirection mechanism, where insufficient bounds checking allows malicious data to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw exists in the handling of redirect parameters that are processed by the IIS service, creating an opportunity for attackers to craft specially formatted redirect requests that trigger the buffer overflow condition.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient space is allocated for data that is copied into a buffer. In IIS 4.0's case, the redirect function fails to properly validate the length of input parameters before copying them into fixed-length buffers, allowing attackers to overflow the allocated memory space and potentially overwrite critical program execution data. This type of vulnerability represents a classic exploitation vector that can lead to privilege escalation and full system compromise when successfully executed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Local attackers who can submit redirect requests to the IIS server can leverage this weakness to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious code with the same permissions as the IIS service account. This presents a significant risk in environments where IIS servers are configured with high-privilege accounts or where the service runs with administrative rights. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which covers command and script injection methods, as the executed code can include malicious commands that further compromise the system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate application of Microsoft security patches released for IIS 4.0, as well as implementing network segmentation to limit local access to web server systems. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary redirect functionality and implementing strict input validation for all web server parameters. System administrators should monitor for unusual redirect requests and implement intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management practices and input validation in web server implementations, as outlined in secure coding guidelines and industry best practices for preventing buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should also consider upgrading from IIS 4.0 to supported versions that include proper bounds checking and memory protection mechanisms.