CVE-2005-0439 in Elog Web Logbook
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the decode_post function in ELOG before 2.5.7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via attachments with long file names.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-0439 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the ELOG system software version 2.5.6 and earlier. This issue resides specifically within the decode_post function, which processes incoming email attachments and handles file name parsing. The buffer overflow occurs when the system encounters email attachments with excessively long file names, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled input can overwrite adjacent memory locations in the application's execution space. This particular vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of buffer overflow conditions, specifically manifesting as a stack-based buffer overflow that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the email processing pipeline, making it accessible to remote attackers who can craft malicious email messages containing oversized file names as attachments.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to send a specially crafted email message containing an attachment with an extremely long file name that exceeds the allocated buffer size within the decode_post function. When the ELOG system processes this malformed email, the insufficient bounds checking in the buffer handling code allows the oversized filename data to overflow into adjacent memory regions, potentially overwriting critical program execution data such as return addresses or function pointers. This memory corruption can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow to malicious code injected by the attacker, effectively enabling remote code execution on the vulnerable system. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer and requires no authentication or privileged access, making it a significant threat to systems processing email through vulnerable ELOG installations.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-0439 extends beyond simple system compromise, as it can lead to complete system takeover and persistent access for attackers. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows unauthorized individuals to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the ELOG service account, potentially escalating to full system compromise depending on the underlying operating system permissions. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on ELOG for email logging and processing, particularly those in environments where email traffic is not properly filtered or where the system is exposed to untrusted network traffic. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper buffer management in email processing systems. The flaw can be exploited across different network environments and does not require specific system configurations to be effective, making it a widespread threat to any organization running vulnerable versions of ELOG.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0439 focus primarily on immediate patching and configuration hardening. Organizations should immediately upgrade to ELOG version 2.5.7 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow vulnerability in the decode_post function. Additionally, implementing email filtering measures that restrict file name lengths and sanitize attachment names can provide defense-in-depth protection against exploitation attempts. Network administrators should consider implementing email gateway solutions that can detect and block malformed email content before it reaches vulnerable systems. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the CERT Secure Coding Standards, specifically addressing buffer overflow prevention and input validation. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques related to remote code execution and privilege escalation, making it a significant concern for organizations needing to maintain secure email processing environments. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should include checks for similar buffer overflow conditions in other email processing applications to prevent similar exploitation scenarios.