CVE-2004-2418 in SlimFTPd
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in SlimFTPd 3.15 and earlier allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a long command, such as (1) CWD, (2) STOR, (3) MKD, and (4) STAT.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2418 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in SlimFTPd version 3.15 and earlier implementations. This security weakness resides within the file transfer protocol server software that handles various user commands, creating a pathway for local attackers to gain unauthorized system access. The flaw specifically manifests when the server processes commands that exceed predetermined buffer limits, allowing malicious input to overwrite adjacent memory regions and potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the running service.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability targets four specific commands: CWD (Change Working Directory), STOR (Store File), MKD (Make Directory), and STAT (Status Information). These commands are fundamental to ftp operations and represent common user interactions with the server. When a local user submits a command containing excessive data, the buffer overflow occurs during command parsing and processing, typically in the server's input validation routines. The vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking and inadequate memory management practices within the SlimFTPd codebase, aligning with CWE-121 which categorizes heap-based buffer overflow conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with complete system control when exploited successfully. Local users who can submit malicious commands gain the ability to execute arbitrary code within the context of the ftpd process, which may run with elevated privileges depending on system configuration. This creates a significant risk for systems where ftp services operate with administrative permissions, potentially allowing attackers to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges further, or access sensitive system resources. The local nature of the attack reduces detection complexity since it does not require network exposure or complex attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2418 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that address the buffer overflow conditions. Organizations must ensure all SlimFTPd installations are upgraded to patched versions that implement proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as restricting local user access to ftp services, monitoring ftp command execution logs for anomalous patterns, and applying principle of least privilege configurations. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, and T1068 which addresses exploit for privilege escalation. Network segmentation and access control measures can further reduce the attack surface by limiting local access to ftp services and implementing proper user account management practices to prevent unauthorized local execution of malicious commands.