CVE-2004-1917 in LCDProc
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in test_func_func in LCDProc 0.4.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in the str variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1917 represents a critical format string flaw within the LCDProc 0.4.1 software and earlier versions, specifically within the test_func_func function. This issue arises from improper input validation and handling of user-supplied data that gets processed through format string functions without adequate sanitization. The vulnerability exists in the context of LCDProc, a software package designed to interface with LCD displays and provide information display services, making it particularly concerning for systems that rely on such display functionalities.
The technical flaw manifests when the str variable containing user input is passed directly to format string functions without proper validation or sanitization. This allows attackers to inject format specifiers that can manipulate the program's execution flow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-134, which specifically addresses the use of format strings with user-controlled data, making it a well-documented and dangerous class of vulnerability in software security. The flaw occurs because the application fails to properly escape or validate format specifiers in user input before processing them through functions like printf or similar format string handlers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on systems running vulnerable versions of LCDProc. This represents a severe privilege escalation vector that could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require local access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for networked environments where LCDProc might be exposed to external networks. The attack surface extends to any system that accepts user input through the affected function and processes it through format string operations, potentially affecting display management services, monitoring systems, and embedded devices running LCDProc.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of all affected systems to the latest stable version of LCDProc that addresses the format string handling issue. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent user-controlled data from being processed through format string functions. The remediation process should include reviewing all code paths that handle user input and ensuring proper validation of format specifiers before any string processing occurs. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of LCDProc services to trusted networks only, while also monitoring for any suspicious activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of adhering to secure coding practices as outlined in the software security guidelines and represents a clear example of how improper input handling can lead to critical remote code execution vulnerabilities.