CVE-2005-4873 in cups
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in the phpcups PHP module for CUPS 1.1.23rc1 might allow context-dependent attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors that result in long function parameters, as demonstrated by the cups_get_dest_options function in phpcups.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-4873 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow in the phpcups PHP module component of CUPS version 1.1.23rc1. This issue resides within the cups_get_dest_options function located in the phpcups.c source file, creating a dangerous condition where attacker-controlled input can overwrite adjacent memory on the stack. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which occurs when a program writes data to a buffer located on the stack without proper bounds checking, allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent stack variables and potentially execute arbitrary code. The context-dependent nature of this vulnerability means that exploitation requires specific conditions to be met, including the ability to control function parameters passed to the vulnerable function.
The technical flaw manifests when the phpcups module processes function parameters that exceed the allocated buffer size, causing a stack overflow condition that can be exploited to overwrite the return address of the calling function. This type of buffer overflow is particularly dangerous because it can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow to malicious code injected into the stack. The vulnerability specifically affects the cups_get_dest_options function which handles printer destination options in the CUPS printing system, making it a target for attackers seeking to compromise systems running vulnerable versions of CUPS. The attack vector involves passing overly long function parameters that trigger the buffer overflow, potentially allowing remote code execution with the privileges of the affected service.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-4873 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Systems running vulnerable CUPS versions with the phpcups module enabled become susceptible to remote attacker exploitation, particularly in environments where web-based printing management is utilized. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on CUPS for printer management through PHP interfaces, creating potential entry points for attackers to gain unauthorized access to network resources. This type of vulnerability can be categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, though more accurately represents T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution when considering the web-based attack surface. The attack could result in data theft, system takeover, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-4873 should focus on immediate patching of the CUPS software to version 1.1.23 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to prevent the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to systems running vulnerable CUPS modules, particularly those exposed to untrusted networks. Input validation should be strengthened at all levels where function parameters are processed, ensuring that all inputs are properly bounded before being passed to functions like cups_get_dest_options. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous parameter lengths being passed to printing-related functions, and regular vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components of the printing infrastructure. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by running the CUPS service with minimal required permissions, reducing the potential impact if exploitation occurs. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper bounds checking in C-based applications and demonstrates how seemingly minor input handling issues can lead to critical security breaches.