CVE-2005-3150 in Weex
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the Log_Flush function in Weex 2.6.1.5, 2.6.1, and possibly other versions allows remote FTP servers to execute arbitrary code via format strings in filenames.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3150 represents a critical format string vulnerability within the Log_Flush function of Weex versions 2.6.1.5, 2.6.1, and potentially other releases. This flaw resides in the software's handling of log file operations where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied data before using it in printf-style formatting operations. The vulnerability specifically manifests when remote FTP servers provide filenames containing format specifiers that are subsequently processed by the Log_Flush function without adequate input sanitization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through maliciously crafted filenames that contain format string specifiers such as %s, %d, or %x which are intended for use in printf functions but are instead consumed by the vulnerable logging mechanism. When the application processes these malformed filenames, the format string specifiers are interpreted by the system's printf family functions, potentially leading to memory corruption, information disclosure, or arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-134 classification of "Use of Externally-Controlled Format String" which is a well-documented weakness in software security practices. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be executed remotely through FTP server interactions, allowing attackers to manipulate the application's behavior without requiring local system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass significant system compromise potential. An attacker who can control the filenames being processed by the vulnerable Log_Flush function can potentially read arbitrary memory locations, overwrite critical program variables, or even inject and execute malicious code within the context of the Weex application. This represents a severe privilege escalation risk, as the successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain full control over the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in networked environments where FTP services are commonly used for file transfers and system administration tasks, as it provides an indirect but effective path for remote system compromise. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, demonstrating the multi-layered attack surface this flaw presents.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3150 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Weex installations to the latest available versions that contain fixes for the format string vulnerability. Organizations should implement input validation measures that prevent format specifiers from being processed in filename handling routines, particularly when these inputs originate from untrusted sources such as remote FTP servers. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit FTP server connectivity and reduce the attack surface available to potential exploiters. Additionally, system monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous filename patterns that might indicate attempted exploitation of this vulnerability. The implementation of proper logging practices that avoid direct use of user-supplied data in printf-style functions, combined with regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning, will help prevent exploitation attempts and maintain overall system security posture against similar format string vulnerabilities.