CVE-2005-2297 in EAServer
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in TreeAction.do in Sybase EAServer 4.2.5 through 5.2 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via a large javascript parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2297 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within Sybase EAServer version 4.2.5 through 5.2, specifically affecting the TreeAction.do component. This vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and bounds checking when processing javascript parameters, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote authenticated attackers. The flaw resides in the server's handling of user-supplied javascript data, where the application fails to properly validate the length of incoming parameters before copying them into fixed-size stack buffers, resulting in memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic stack buffer overflow pattern where a maliciously crafted javascript parameter exceeding the allocated buffer size causes data to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. This includes potentially overwriting return addresses, function pointers, and other critical control data structures that govern program execution flow. The vulnerability requires only authenticated access to the server, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by users who already have legitimate access credentials, potentially escalating privileges or gaining full system control. The attack vector operates over network protocols typically used for web application communication, making it accessible through standard web browser interactions or automated exploitation tools.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise environments relying on Sybase EAServer for business-critical applications. The remote execution capability means that attackers can potentially compromise entire server infrastructures without requiring physical access or specialized local privileges. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to include potential data breaches, system takeover, and disruption of business operations. Organizations using affected versions of EAServer face exposure to sophisticated attacks that could lead to complete system compromise, especially when the server hosts sensitive business applications or handles confidential data processing. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites beyond valid authentication credentials, making it particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to establish persistent access to enterprise networks.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate patching of affected EAServer versions to the latest available security updates from Sybase. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of the vulnerable components to untrusted networks. Input validation mechanisms should be strengthened to enforce strict parameter length limits and sanitize all javascript inputs before processing. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns in javascript parameter usage that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow and represents a technique commonly catalogued in ATT&CK framework under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution. System administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation signatures and maintain detailed audit logs of all authentication and parameter processing activities within the affected server components.