CVE-2005-0187 in AtHoc toolbar
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the SetSkin function in AtHoc toolbar allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long skin name.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0187 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the AtHoc toolbar software component. This security weakness specifically manifests in the SetSkin function where improper input validation allows attackers to exploit memory corruption through maliciously crafted skin name parameters. The flaw stems from insufficient bounds checking mechanisms that fail to properly validate the length of user-supplied input before copying it into fixed-size memory buffers on the stack. Such vulnerabilities fall under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent stack memory locations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker crafts a malicious skin name string that exceeds the allocated buffer size within the SetSkin function. As the application processes this oversized input without proper sanitization, the excess data overflows into adjacent stack memory regions, potentially overwriting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data. This memory corruption enables attackers to manipulate the program execution flow and inject arbitrary code that executes with the privileges of the vulnerable application. The attack vector leverages remote code execution capabilities, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through network-based interactions without requiring local system access or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website or downloading compromised content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. When successfully exploited, the buffer overflow can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive system resources, privilege escalation to administrative levels, and persistent backdoor installation within the compromised environment. The AtHoc toolbar, being a client-side component often deployed in enterprise environments, provides attackers with a potential entry point for lateral movement and broader network infiltration. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target systems without physical access, making it particularly concerning for organizations that deploy the affected toolbar across multiple endpoints. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as the initial code execution can be leveraged to establish more persistent and dangerous attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected AtHoc toolbar software to address the buffer overflow condition through proper input validation and bounds checking. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit potential exploitation paths, while also deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns associated with exploit attempts. Security configurations should include disabling unnecessary toolbar functionalities and implementing strict input validation at all application interfaces. The remediation process must also consider the broader software ecosystem to ensure that similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities are not present in other components of the application stack, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and comprehensive code review processes. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar memory corruption issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors.