CVE-2004-1649 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Microsoft Msinfo32.exe might allow local users to execute arbitrary code via a long filename in the msinfo_file command line parameter. NOTE: this issue might not cross security boundaries, so it may be REJECTED in the future.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1649 represents a classic buffer overflow flaw in Microsoft's msinfo32.exe utility, which is part of the Windows operating system's system information tool. This executable is designed to gather and display system configuration details, making it a legitimate component of the Windows environment that users and administrators routinely interact with. The buffer overflow occurs when processing command line arguments, specifically the msinfo_file parameter, which accepts filename inputs that can exceed the allocated buffer space. This particular vulnerability resides in the command line argument parsing mechanism of msinfo32.exe, where insufficient bounds checking allows malicious input to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the msinfo32.exe application. When a local attacker provides an excessively long filename through the msinfo_file command line parameter, the application fails to properly validate the input length against the allocated buffer size. This results in a classic stack-based buffer overflow condition where the overflowed data can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, and other critical memory segments. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the context of a legitimate system utility, making it more likely to be executed by unsuspecting users. According to CWE classification, this maps to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which occurs when insufficient bounds checking allows a buffer to be overwritten beyond its allocated memory boundaries. The attack vector is local privilege escalation, as the vulnerability requires local system access to exploit, though it could potentially be leveraged as part of a broader attack chain.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a potential pathway for privilege escalation within a compromised system. While the vulnerability is classified as local, meaning it requires an attacker to already have system-level access, it could be exploited as part of a multi-stage attack strategy. The msinfo32.exe utility is typically available to standard users and administrators, making it a potentially attractive target for attackers who have already gained initial access to a system. The vulnerability's potential for arbitrary code execution means that an attacker could leverage this flaw to install backdoors, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malicious software. The security implications are further amplified by the fact that this vulnerability affects a core Windows utility, potentially allowing attackers to bypass certain security controls or gain deeper system access. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques such as T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, particularly when used in conjunction with other exploitation methods.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1649 should focus on both immediate defensive measures and long-term system hardening approaches. The most effective immediate solution involves applying Microsoft security patches and updates, as this vulnerability was addressed through official Microsoft security bulletins. System administrators should ensure that all Windows systems are kept current with security updates, particularly those addressing buffer overflow vulnerabilities in system utilities. Additionally, implementing input validation controls and restricting unnecessary access to system utilities can reduce the attack surface. The principle of least privilege should be enforced, limiting user access to system information tools that do not require elevated permissions. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions can help detect unusual command line executions that might indicate exploitation attempts. From a defensive standpoint, implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for abnormal process execution patterns can provide additional layers of protection. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for outdated system utilities that may contain similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities, as this type of flaw often indicates broader code quality issues that could lead to additional security risks.