CVE-2005-0577 in MKBold-MKItalic
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in DNA MKBold-MKItalic 0.06_1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted BDF font files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0577 represents a critical format string vulnerability affecting the DNA MKBold-MKItalic font rendering component version 0.06_1 and earlier. This flaw exists within the handling of BDF (Bitmap Distribution Format) font files, which are commonly used in X Window System environments for font representation. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper string formatting operations when processing maliciously crafted font data, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the vulnerable font rendering library processes BDF font files containing specially crafted format specifiers within their data structures. These format specifiers, when improperly handled during string operations, can lead to stack-based buffer overflows or arbitrary code execution. The flaw specifically manifests in the way the application processes user-supplied data within font files, where format string functions such as printf or sprintf are called without proper validation of the input format string, allowing attackers to manipulate the execution flow through carefully crafted payload data within the BDF file structure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to compromise entire systems running vulnerable versions of the DNA MKBold-MKItalic font component. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-user environments or web-based applications where font files are dynamically loaded and processed, as it can be exploited through various attack vectors including web browsers, desktop applications, or any system that processes BDF font files. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require local access or physical presence to leverage this vulnerability, making it a significant threat to system security and integrity.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0577 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems with the vendor-provided security updates that address the format string vulnerability in the font processing library. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures for all font files processed by their systems, including sanitization of BDF file contents and implementation of proper format string handling routines that prevent the exploitation of such vulnerabilities. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-134, which specifically addresses format string vulnerabilities, and falls under ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious code through compromised font processing components. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure that all font rendering components within the system are properly updated and secured against similar format string vulnerabilities.