CVE-2004-2552 in XBoard
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in XBoard 4.2.7 and earlier might allow local users to execute arbitrary code via a long -icshost command line argument. NOTE: since the program is not setuid and not normally called from remote programs, there may not be a typical attack vector for the issue that crosses privilege boundaries. Therefore this may not be a vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2552 represents a classic buffer overflow condition affecting XBoard version 4.2.7 and earlier implementations. This flaw manifests specifically when processing command line arguments, particularly the -icshost parameter, which serves as an interface for connecting to Internet Chess Server hosts. The buffer overflow occurs due to insufficient input validation and bounds checking within the argument parsing mechanism of the chess graphical user interface application.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices within the XBoard application's command line processing code. When a local user provides an excessively long -icshost argument, the program fails to adequately validate the input length before copying it into a fixed-size buffer. This classic stack-based buffer overflow condition allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses and control data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running XBoard, though the attack requires local system access.
From an operational perspective, the impact assessment reveals significant considerations regarding attack vectors and privilege escalation. While the vulnerability exists in a local context, the fact that XBoard typically runs with user privileges rather than elevated permissions limits the potential for cross-privilege boundary exploitation. The absence of setuid permissions and the typical non-remote invocation pattern reduces the likelihood of remote exploitation, though local privilege escalation scenarios remain possible. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a common attack surface in graphical applications that process external inputs through command line parameters.
The practical implications extend beyond simple code execution capabilities, as this vulnerability could enable attackers to manipulate the chess application's behavior in ways that might compromise system integrity. The attack requires local system access and user interaction, making it less severe than remote exploits but still concerning for environments where multiple users share systems. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of broader system hardening practices, particularly when evaluating applications with complex command line interfaces. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of adhering to secure coding practices, including input validation and buffer size management, as outlined in various security frameworks and attack methodologies such as those referenced in the MITRE ATT&CK framework's system binary exploitation techniques. Mitigation strategies should focus on input validation, proper buffer management, and application sandboxing to prevent potential exploitation scenarios while maintaining the application's intended functionality.