CVE-2004-2433 in Media Desktop
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the IsValidFile function in the ADM ActiveX control for Altnet Download Manager 4.0.0.4 and earlier, as used in Kazaa Media Desktop 1.3 through 2.6.4 and Grokkster 1.3 through 2.6, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long bstrFilepath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2433 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the ADM ActiveX control component of several peer-to-peer file sharing applications. This flaw exists in the IsValidFile function where insufficient input validation occurs when processing the bstrFilepath parameter, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution on vulnerable systems. The affected software versions include Altnet Download Manager 4.0.0.4 and earlier, which are integrated into Kazaa Media Desktop 1.3 through 2.6.4 and Grokkster 1.3 through 2.6, indicating a widespread impact across multiple peer-to-peer networking platforms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the ActiveX control's IsValidFile function, which processes file path parameters without adequate validation of input length. When a maliciously crafted bstrFilepath parameter exceeds the allocated buffer space, it causes a buffer overflow condition that can overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and execution pointers. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of unsafe string handling in legacy software components. The ActiveX control architecture inherently provides a privileged execution environment within web browsers, making successful exploitation particularly dangerous as it can bypass standard operating system security mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass complete system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this buffer overflow to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the vulnerable application, typically resulting in full system compromise when the affected applications run with elevated permissions. The exploitation requires only a remote attacker with access to a vulnerable system through web-based content delivery or peer-to-peer network interactions, making it particularly dangerous in the context of peer-to-peer networks where users frequently download content from untrusted sources. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in software components through malicious payloads delivered via web-based attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2433 require immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the vendors, as the vulnerability affects legacy software components that are no longer actively supported. System administrators should implement browser security restrictions through ActiveX control policies, disable unnecessary ActiveX controls, and deploy network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of downloading content from untrusted sources and the importance of keeping software updated, particularly in environments where peer-to-peer applications are prevalent. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in software development, with implications for modern security practices including the need for secure coding standards and regular vulnerability assessments of legacy components that continue to operate in enterprise environments.