CVE-2004-1275 in html2hdml
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the remove_quote function in convert.c for html2hdml 1.0.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted HTML file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1275 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the html2hdml conversion utility version 1.0.3. This issue specifically affects the remove_quote function located in the convert.c source file, creating a security weakness that can be exploited by remote attackers to gain unauthorized code execution capabilities. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and boundary checking within the function that processes HTML content during the conversion process to HDML format. When a maliciously crafted HTML file is processed by the vulnerable utility, the remove_quote function fails to properly handle input data that exceeds allocated buffer space, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow vulnerability occurs during the parsing and conversion of HTML content where the remove_quote function does not adequately validate the length of input strings before copying them into fixed-size buffers. This classic buffer overflow scenario allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the program's execution flow and enabling the injection of malicious code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within a conversion utility that may be invoked automatically by web servers or other automated systems, making it susceptible to remote exploitation through crafted HTML content delivered via web requests or file uploads. The flaw aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a common attack vector that has been extensively documented in cybersecurity literature and exploited in numerous real-world scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can potentially enable complete system compromise when the html2hdml utility is executed in privileged contexts. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the user running the conversion utility, which may include system administrator rights in many deployment scenarios. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the utility might be part of larger web applications or content management systems where HTML content is processed automatically, creating opportunities for automated exploitation. This vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly benign conversion utilities can become critical attack vectors when proper input sanitization is absent, and it highlights the importance of robust memory management practices in software development. The potential for privilege escalation makes this vulnerability particularly attractive to attackers who seek persistent access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1275 should focus on immediate patching of the html2hdml utility to version 1.0.4 or later, which contains the necessary buffer overflow protections and input validation fixes. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures for all HTML content processed by the utility, including length restrictions and character set limitations to prevent buffer overflows. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of systems running the vulnerable utility to untrusted users or automated scanning tools. Additionally, deploying intrusion detection systems that monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability can provide early warning capabilities. The remediation process should also include comprehensive code review of similar functions within the same codebase to identify and address potential similar vulnerabilities, following secure coding practices that align with industry standards such as those recommended by the CERT/CC and OWASP. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure that all components of the web application stack remain protected against similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities that may exist in other utility functions or third-party libraries.