CVE-2006-1269 in zoo
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the parse function in parse.c in zoo 2.10 might allow local users to execute arbitrary code via long filename command line arguments, which are not properly handled during archive creation. NOTE: since this issue is local and not setuid, the set of attack scenarios is limited, although is reasonable to expect that there are some situations in which the zoo user might automatically list attacker-controlled filenames to add to the zoo archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1269 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the zoo archival utility version 2.10. This security weakness resides in the parse function located within the parse.c source file, where the software fails to properly validate or handle command line arguments containing excessively long filename strings during archive creation processes. The buffer overflow condition occurs when the application attempts to process filename arguments that exceed predetermined memory boundaries, creating potential execution paths for malicious code injection. The vulnerability specifically affects local users who can manipulate command line inputs to trigger the overflow condition, making it particularly concerning in environments where users might have the ability to influence archive creation workflows.
The technical nature of this flaw aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability operates through a classic stack-based buffer overflow scenario where the parse function does not adequately enforce length limits on filename inputs, causing memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code. The attack vector requires local system access and involves crafting maliciously long filename arguments that exceed the allocated buffer space, potentially overwriting return addresses or other critical program memory structures. This type of vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms in software applications handling user-supplied data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation scenarios, as the flaw can be leveraged in situations where zoo user processes automatically process attacker-controlled filenames during archive operations. While the vulnerability is classified as local and not setuid, the attack surface remains significant in environments where users might inadvertently or deliberately provide filenames that trigger the buffer overflow condition. The exploitation potential increases in contexts where automated systems or scripts invoke zoo commands with user-provided filenames, creating scenarios where attackers can craft malicious inputs that cause the application to execute unintended code. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in shared or multi-user environments where users might have the ability to influence archive creation processes through various system interfaces or automated workflows.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-1269 should focus on implementing proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the zoo application code. The most effective approach involves modifying the parse function to enforce strict length limits on filename arguments and implement proper memory management practices to prevent buffer overflows. System administrators should consider upgrading to patched versions of the zoo utility where available, as this vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent releases through improved input handling and memory protection mechanisms. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege controls can limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting user access to archive creation functionalities. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments of legacy software systems to identify and remediate similar buffer overflow conditions that could compromise system integrity and security. Organizations should conduct thorough code reviews focusing on input validation and memory handling routines to prevent similar issues from occurring in other applications within their infrastructure.