CVE-2006-1075 in Liero Xtreme
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the visualization function in Jason Boettcher Liero Xtreme 0.62b and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in (1) a nickname, (2) a dedicated server name, or (3) a mapname in a level (aka .lxl) file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/07/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-1075 represents a critical format string flaw within the Jason Boettcher Liero Xtreme 0.62b gaming client and earlier versions. This issue specifically affects the visualization functions responsible for rendering user-provided data within the game environment. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly handle format string specifiers, creating an avenue for malicious exploitation. The affected software components process user-supplied information including nicknames, dedicated server names, and map names contained within level files with the .lxl extension, making these elements potential attack vectors for remote code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-134, which specifically addresses format string vulnerabilities where program output functions are called with user-controlled data as the format string argument. In the context of Liero Xtreme, when the visualization functions process these user-provided strings without proper sanitization, attackers can inject format specifiers that manipulate the program's execution flow. The attack occurs through specially crafted .lxl level files that contain malicious format string sequences in the nickname, server name, or map name fields. When the vulnerable game client processes these files, it interprets the injected format specifiers as commands rather than literal text, potentially leading to stack corruption and arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable Liero Xtreme client. This presents a significant risk to multiplayer gaming environments where users might unknowingly download and open malicious level files from untrusted sources. The vulnerability affects both single-player and multiplayer scenarios since any level file containing malicious content can trigger the exploit regardless of whether the user is playing solo or connecting to a dedicated server. The attack vector requires minimal user interaction, as simply opening a malicious .lxl file can trigger the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently exchange game content.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate software updates and input validation improvements. The most effective approach involves applying patches that update the Liero Xtreme client to versions that properly sanitize all user-provided input before processing it through format string functions. Organizations and users should implement strict file validation procedures for .lxl files, particularly those obtained from untrusted sources. Network-level protections can include implementing content filtering mechanisms that scan game files for suspicious format string patterns before allowing them to be processed by the client. From a defensive perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the ATT&CK framework under the technique of T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where format string vulnerabilities can be exploited to execute malicious commands through improper string handling. The vulnerability also highlights the need for robust input validation and the principle of least privilege in software design, ensuring that user inputs are never directly used as format strings without proper sanitization and validation checks.