CVE-2005-2961 in Download Accelerator
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the get_string_ahref function for ProZilla 1.3.7.4 and possibly earlier, with the -ftpsearch option enabled, allows remote servers to execute arbitrary code via a search response with a crafted string in the HREF field of an <A> tag.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2961 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within ProZilla version 1.3.7.4 and potentially earlier releases. This security weakness specifically manifests in the get_string_ahref function when the application operates with the -ftpsearch command line option enabled. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and bounds checking during the processing of HTML content received from remote servers. When ProZilla encounters a search response containing a specially crafted HREF field within an <A> tag, the application fails to properly sanitize the input before copying it into a fixed-size buffer, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic buffer overflow pattern where the application does not perform adequate boundary checks on user-supplied data. The get_string_ahref function processes HTML anchor tags and extracts href attributes without sufficient validation of the string length, allowing an attacker to provide input that exceeds the allocated buffer space. This condition falls under CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow vulnerabilities as a fundamental weakness in software design that allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates in a network context where remote servers can craft malicious responses, making it a remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited without requiring local access to the target system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it can enable complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Attackers can leverage this flaw to inject and execute malicious code on systems running vulnerable versions of ProZilla, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or system control. The vulnerability affects users who rely on ProZilla's FTP search functionality, making it particularly concerning for those who frequently connect to untrusted FTP servers or web resources. The attack vector requires no special privileges from the attacker, as the vulnerability exists within the application's handling of legitimate network responses, making it a significant risk for any user who might encounter malicious content during FTP searches.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through software updates to versions that address the buffer overflow condition. System administrators should prioritize patching affected installations and consider implementing network-level controls to restrict access to potentially malicious FTP servers. The implementation of input validation and bounds checking mechanisms within the get_string_ahref function would provide permanent protection against similar issues. Additionally, organizations should consider employing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management and input validation practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious payloads through the compromised application. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar buffer overflow conditions in their software applications, particularly in network-facing components that process external data.