CVE-2004-1076 in Atari800
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in the RtConfigLoad function in rt-config.c for Atari800 before 1.3.4 allow local users to execute arbitrary code via large values in the configuration file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/02/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1076 represents a critical buffer overflow condition affecting the Atari800 emulator software version prior to 1.3.4. This issue resides within the RtConfigLoad function located in the rt-config.c source file, which handles configuration file parsing operations. The flaw manifests when the emulator processes configuration files containing excessively large values, creating an opportunity for local attackers to exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities. The buffer overflow occurs during the parsing phase of configuration data, where insufficient input validation allows maliciously crafted data to overwrite adjacent memory regions. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, specifically manifesting as a classic buffer overrun condition that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it enables privilege escalation and potential system compromise when exploited by local users who can manipulate configuration files. The Atari800 emulator, designed for retro gaming and computing emulation, becomes a vector for code execution when users load specially crafted configuration files that exceed buffer boundaries. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical program variables, potentially allowing them to redirect execution flow and inject malicious code into the running process. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation typically involves executing arbitrary code through manipulated input data. The configuration file parsing mechanism represents a common attack surface in software applications, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to manipulate program execution flow. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate memory management, creating a persistent security risk that affects all versions of Atari800 before the 1.3.4 release. The local privilege requirement means that exploitation does not require network connectivity or remote access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users have the ability to modify configuration files. Security researchers identified that the issue stems from a lack of proper bounds checking in the configuration loading routine, where the application does not validate the size of input data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. This oversight creates a predictable exploitation pattern where attackers can craft configuration files with oversized values to trigger the buffer overflow. The vulnerability also relates to CWE-787 which covers out-of-bounds write conditions, indicating that the flaw allows writing data beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation, utilizing safe string handling functions, and applying the vendor-provided patch version 1.3.4 which addresses the buffer overflow by enforcing size limits on configuration file values. Additionally, system administrators should consider restricting user access to configuration files and implementing proper access controls to prevent unauthorized modifications. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and input sanitization in preventing buffer overflow exploits, particularly in applications that process user-supplied data through parsing routines. Organizations should ensure that all legacy software components undergo regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities before they can be exploited in real-world scenarios. The remediation process requires careful attention to memory management practices and input validation controls to prevent similar issues from occurring in other software components that handle configuration data or user input processing.