CVE-2004-1900 in IGI 2 Covert Strike
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the logging function in IGI 2 Covert Strike server 1.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in RCON commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1900 represents a critical format string vulnerability within the IGI 2 Covert Strike server version 1.3 and earlier implementations. This flaw exists within the server's logging function where remote attackers can manipulate RCON commands to inject malicious format string specifiers. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data that flows directly into printf-style logging functions without adequate protection mechanisms. Such format string vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they allow attackers to manipulate memory locations and potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system. The flaw specifically affects the server's remote console functionality where commands are processed and logged, creating a direct attack surface that can be exploited from remote locations without requiring authentication.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows established patterns associated with format string attacks as documented in CWE-134 and aligned with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. When an attacker sends specially crafted RCON commands containing format specifiers such as %x, %s, or %n, the vulnerable logging function processes these inputs directly without proper sanitization. This allows the attacker to read arbitrary memory locations, overwrite critical memory regions, or execute malicious code by leveraging the format string vulnerability to manipulate the program's execution flow. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure to full remote code execution capabilities, making this a severe security flaw that can compromise entire server environments.
Operational consequences of this vulnerability are significant for organizations running affected IGI 2 Covert Strike server versions. The remote code execution capability means that attackers can gain complete control over the affected server, potentially using it as a pivot point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the server's core logging functionality, which is essential for security monitoring and incident response activities, creating a dangerous situation where malicious actors can not only execute code but also potentially hide their activities by manipulating log entries. Network administrators face the challenge of identifying and mitigating this vulnerability across potentially multiple server instances, while the lack of authentication requirements for exploitation makes the attack surface particularly broad.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1900 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied data. The primary remediation involves updating to IGI 2 Covert Strike server versions that have patched this vulnerability, as the original implementation lacks proper protection mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict input validation on all RCON command processing and avoid using user-supplied data directly in printf-style functions. Security measures should include disabling unnecessary RCON functionality when possible and implementing network segmentation to limit exposure. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious RCON command patterns and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security standards such as those outlined in the CWE database and ATT&CK framework to prevent similar issues in future implementations.