CVE-2005-3487 in Scorched 3D
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in Scorched 3D 39.1 (bf) and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via various (1) GLConsole::addLine, (2) ServerCommon::sendString, (3) ServerCommon::serverLog functions, (4) a long command that is not properly handled in ComsMessageHandler.cpp when generating an error message, (5) a long UniqueID value in Logger.cpp, and possibly other unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3487 represents a critical buffer overflow issue affecting Scorched 3D version 39.1 and earlier releases. This software, a multiplayer tank combat game, suffers from multiple exploitable buffer overflows that stem from improper input validation and memory management practices within its core networking and logging components. The vulnerability manifests through several distinct code paths that all share the common weakness of insufficient bounds checking on user-supplied data, creating opportunities for remote code execution.
The technical flaw occurs primarily in the GLConsole::addLine function where character buffer limitations are not properly enforced when processing console output messages. Additionally, ServerCommon::sendString and ServerCommon::serverLog functions exhibit similar vulnerabilities when handling string data, particularly when processing network communications and log entries. The ComsMessageHandler.cpp file contains another exploitable buffer overflow when generating error messages for excessively long commands, while Logger.cpp demonstrates the same issue with overly long UniqueID values. These vulnerabilities are categorized under CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and CWE-122, stack-based buffer overflow, representing fundamental memory safety issues that have been consistently identified as high-risk in software security assessments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as remote attackers can leverage these buffer overflows to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious input data that exceeds the allocated buffer sizes, causing memory corruption that can be manipulated to redirect program execution flow. This vulnerability affects both the client and server components of the Scorched 3D application, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to game servers or compromise client systems. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that Scorched 3D was widely distributed and used in multiplayer environments, making the exploitation vectors accessible to a broad range of potential attackers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3487 require immediate patching of the affected Scorched 3D versions, as no reliable workarounds exist for these buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit exposure of affected systems and monitor for suspicious network activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, Exploitation for Client Execution, and T1068, Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, highlighting the need for comprehensive security monitoring and incident response procedures. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of untrusted code and establish robust input validation controls for all network-facing applications. The remediation process must include thorough code review and security testing of all input handling functions to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future versions of the software.