CVE-2004-1763 in Hahtsite Scenario Server
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in hsrun.exe for HAHTsite Scenario Server 5.1 Patch 06 (build 91) allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a long project name.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1763 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in the hsrun.exe component of HAHTsite Scenario Server version 5.1 Patch 06. This software component serves as the execution engine for scenario-based applications within the HAHTsite framework, which is commonly used in simulation and training environments. The buffer overflow occurs specifically when processing project names that exceed the allocated buffer space, creating a condition where attacker-controlled input can overwrite adjacent memory locations. This flaw exists due to insufficient input validation and bounds checking within the project name handling routine, making it susceptible to exploitation by remote attackers who can craft maliciously long project names to trigger the vulnerability.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from improper memory management practices within the hsrun.exe application, which fails to validate the length of project names before copying them into fixed-size buffers. According to CWE-121, this vulnerability falls under the category of stack-based buffer overflow, where the overflow occurs in stack memory allocated for local variables. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, as the vulnerable function processes project names through network interfaces. The buffer overflow creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the program execution flow by overwriting return addresses and function pointers stored in the stack, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability is classified under ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves the exploitation of input validation weaknesses to gain unauthorized system access.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-1763 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity breaches. When exploited successfully, the vulnerability can cause the HAHTsite Scenario Server to crash and restart, resulting in service disruption for legitimate users and potential denial of service conditions. However, the more severe implications arise from the possibility of arbitrary code execution, which could allow attackers to install backdoors, escalate privileges, or exfiltrate sensitive data from the affected system. The vulnerability affects systems running HAHTsite Scenario Server 5.1 Patch 06, which was widely deployed in enterprise environments for simulation and training purposes, making it a significant concern for organizations that rely on this platform for critical operations. The remote exploitability means that attackers can target vulnerable systems from outside the network perimeter, increasing the attack surface and reducing the effectiveness of traditional network security measures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1763 should focus on both immediate patching and operational controls to reduce exposure. The most effective remediation involves applying the vendor-provided security patches that address the buffer overflow condition in hsrun.exe by implementing proper input validation and bounds checking for project names. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to HAHTsite Scenario Server components and employ input filtering mechanisms to prevent overly long project names from reaching the vulnerable application. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual patterns of project name submissions that might indicate exploitation attempts. According to industry best practices, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in legacy systems, as this vulnerability demonstrates how older software components can remain exposed to exploitation for extended periods. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls to restrict execution of the vulnerable hsrun.exe binary to only trusted administrators and processes. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and the risks associated with running legacy software systems without proper security controls in place.