CVE-2006-1356 in Rolo
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the count_vcards function in LibVC 3, as used in Rolo, allows user-assisted attackers to execute arbitrary code via a vCard file (e.g. contacts.vcf) containing a long line.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1356 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the LibVC 3 library implementation, specifically within the count_vcards function. This vulnerability affects applications that utilize the Rolo contact management system, creating a dangerous condition where maliciously crafted vCard files can trigger unauthorized code execution. The flaw manifests when processing vCard format files, particularly those containing exceptionally long lines that exceed the allocated buffer space in memory. The vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations and potentially execute arbitrary code.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a specially formatted vCard file with an excessively long line that surpasses the predetermined buffer limits within the count_vcards function. When the vulnerable application processes this malicious file, the function fails to properly validate input length, leading to a buffer overflow condition on the stack. This overflow can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, and other critical stack data, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow and inject malicious code. The attack vector is user-assisted, meaning the target must open or process the malicious vCard file, typically through normal contact management operations, making the exploit relatively accessible in real-world scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can potentially allow for privilege escalation and system compromise when the vulnerable application runs with elevated permissions. Attackers could leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to systems, install backdoors, or perform other malicious activities. The vulnerability affects not just individual user systems but also enterprise environments where contact management systems are widely deployed, potentially creating widespread security implications. The exploitation scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on compromised systems through the overflowed execution context.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-1356 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems, as the vulnerability has been known for over a decade and multiple versions of the affected software have been released with fixes. Organizations should implement input validation measures to limit line length in vCard files and deploy application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of untrusted code. Additionally, security monitoring should include detection of unusual vCard file processing activities and network traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in preventing buffer overflow exploits, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-144 and other cybersecurity frameworks that emphasize defensive coding techniques and robust error handling mechanisms.