CVE-2004-2416 in CCProxy
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the logging component of CCProxy allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long HTTP GET request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2416 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the logging functionality of CCProxy software, a widely used proxy server application. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the proxy's logging component that processes incoming HTTP GET requests. The flaw specifically manifests when the proxy server receives a malformed HTTP GET request containing an excessively long string of data, which exceeds the allocated buffer space in memory. This condition creates an exploitable scenario where malicious actors can manipulate the proxy server's memory layout through carefully crafted network traffic, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common buffer overflow patterns classified under CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw operates at the application layer of the network stack, specifically targeting the HTTP protocol handling mechanisms within CCProxy's logging subsystem. When a remote attacker submits an HTTP GET request containing more data than the designated buffer can accommodate, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory regions, potentially corrupting critical program variables, return addresses, or function pointers. This memory corruption can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow and ultimately execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the proxy server process, typically running with elevated system permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised proxy server infrastructure. Since CCProxy servers often serve as network gateways for organizations, successful exploitation could enable attackers to intercept, modify, or redirect network traffic between internal systems and external networks. The vulnerability's remote nature eliminates the need for physical access or local network presence, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where proxy servers are commonly deployed. Additionally, the attack vector through HTTP GET requests means that exploitation can occur through various network entry points including web browsers, automated scanning tools, or even through compromised web applications that might interact with the proxy server. This characteristic places the vulnerability in the ATT&CK framework under the T1210 technique for exploitation of remote services, potentially leading to further lateral movement within the network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2416 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves applying vendor patches or upgrading to CCProxy versions that include proper input validation and buffer size limitations within the logging component. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of proxy servers to untrusted networks, particularly by restricting direct internet access to these critical infrastructure components. Additional protective measures include deploying intrusion detection systems capable of identifying suspicious HTTP GET request patterns, implementing strict input validation at network boundaries, and conducting regular security assessments of proxy server configurations. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management practices and input validation in network services, reinforcing the need for secure coding practices that prevent buffer overflow conditions through techniques such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and comprehensive bounds checking mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous traffic patterns consistent with buffer overflow exploitation attempts, providing early warning capabilities for potential attacks against vulnerable proxy server implementations.