CVE-2005-0243 in Yahoo
Summary
by MITRE
Yahoo! Messenger 6.0.0.1750, and possibly other versions before 6.0.0.1921, does not properly display long filenames in file dialog boxes, which could allow remote attackers to trick users into downloading and executing programs via file names containing a large number of spaces and multiple file extensions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0243 affects Yahoo! Messenger version 6.0.0.1750 and potentially earlier versions up to 6.0.0.1921, representing a significant security flaw in the application's user interface handling of file names. This issue stems from the client application's inadequate management of filename display within file dialog boxes, creating a deceptive environment where malicious actors can exploit the visual limitations of the interface to mislead users about file content and intentions.
The technical flaw manifests in the improper rendering of long filenames within Yahoo! Messenger's file selection dialogs, specifically when filenames contain excessive whitespace and multiple file extensions. This rendering limitation allows attackers to craft filenames that appear innocuous when displayed but actually contain hidden malicious extensions. The vulnerability operates through a classic social engineering attack vector where the visual deception makes it appear as though a benign file type is being offered for download, while the actual file may be executable or contain harmful code.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-174, which describes the weakness of insufficient input validation and improper handling of file names in user interfaces. The operational impact of this flaw extends beyond simple deception, as it creates a pathway for malicious code execution through user interaction. Attackers can construct filenames that, when displayed in the truncated dialog box, appear to be safe documents or images while actually being executable files with misleading extensions. The attack requires user interaction through the file dialog interface, making it a form of social engineering that leverages the trust users place in the application's interface.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with ATT&CK technique T1204.002, which involves user execution through social engineering attacks that manipulate user interfaces to trick users into performing unintended actions. The flaw essentially creates a false sense of security in the file selection process, allowing malicious payloads to bypass normal security checks that would otherwise detect suspicious file types. Users may download and execute files believing they are receiving legitimate documents, while the system's interface fails to properly display the true nature of the file being offered.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of Yahoo! Messenger to version 6.0.0.1921 or later, which addresses the filename display issue in file dialog boxes. Organizations should implement additional protective measures such as restricting file type downloads through network-level filtering and deploying endpoint protection solutions that can identify and block suspicious file execution patterns. User education regarding the risks of downloading files from untrusted sources and the importance of verifying file extensions regardless of how they appear in interface elements remains crucial. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure user interface design practices that prevent visual deception attacks in client applications.