CVE-2005-1545 in HT Editor
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the ELF parser in HT Editor before 0.8.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted ELF file, which leads to a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1545 represents a critical security flaw within the HT Editor software suite, specifically affecting versions prior to 0.8.0. This issue manifests as an integer overflow condition within the ELF file parser component, which is responsible for interpreting executable and linkable format files commonly used in unix-like operating systems. The flaw occurs during the processing of ELF file headers and metadata, where the software fails to properly validate integer values before performing memory allocation operations. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of memory safety issues and is particularly dangerous due to its potential for remote code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental weakness in how the ELF parser handles certain header fields that contain size information. When processing a specially crafted ELF file, the parser encounters integer overflow conditions that result in incorrect memory allocation calculations. This miscalculation leads to heap-based buffer overflow scenarios where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory regions. The integer overflow typically occurs when the parser attempts to calculate buffer sizes based on values from the ELF file header, particularly in fields related to section headers, program headers, or string table sizes. The overflow conditions cause the application to allocate insufficient memory buffers, which then become vulnerable to overflow attacks when legitimate data is written beyond the allocated boundaries.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-1545 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on systems running vulnerable versions of HT Editor. This remote code execution vulnerability enables attackers to gain full control over affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or use as a pivot point for further attacks within network environments. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through simple file manipulation, requiring no special privileges or complex attack vectors. The heap-based buffer overflow nature means that attackers can manipulate memory layout to redirect program execution flow, potentially injecting and executing malicious code payloads.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions that can lead to buffer overflows, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can result in memory corruption vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this as a software exploitation technique, specifically under the 'Exploitation for Client Execution' tactic where attackers leverage application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by upgrading to HT Editor version 0.8.0 or later, which includes proper integer overflow checks and memory allocation validations. Additionally, implementing network segmentation, application whitelisting, and regular security assessments can help mitigate the risk of exploitation in environments where immediate upgrades are not feasible. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in security-critical applications, particularly those handling untrusted file formats.