CVE-2005-0729 in Xpand Rally
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in Xpand Rally 1.1.0.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in a message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0729 represents a critical format string vulnerability affecting Xpand Rally version 1.1.0.0 and earlier installations. This flaw resides in the application's handling of user-supplied input within message processing functions, creating a pathway for remote code execution through malformed format specifiers. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to adequately process or escape user-provided data before incorporating it into printf-style formatting operations.
From a technical perspective, the vulnerability manifests when the application receives a message containing format string specifiers such as %s, %d, or %x without proper validation or sanitization. When these malformed inputs are processed through vulnerable printf functions, attackers can manipulate memory contents, cause application crashes, or potentially execute arbitrary code. The flaw aligns with CWE-134 which specifically addresses the use of untrusted input in format string functions, making it a direct implementation of this well-known security weakness. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means attackers do not require local access to compromise the system, significantly expanding the attack surface and potential impact.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data breach scenarios. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can manipulate the application's memory layout, potentially overwriting critical function pointers or return addresses to redirect program execution flow. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited across network boundaries without requiring authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools. The attack vector typically involves sending specially crafted messages to the vulnerable application, which then processes these inputs through insecure format string operations, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources and potentially escalate privileges to the application's user context.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0729 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems to the latest available versions of Xpand Rally that address this vulnerability. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent format string specifiers from being processed through vulnerable functions, which aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to vulnerable services, while application-level monitoring should be implemented to detect anomalous message patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, security teams should consider implementing intrusion detection systems capable of identifying the specific payload patterns associated with format string exploitation attempts, as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for defensive measures against similar vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in the broader application ecosystem.