CVE-2006-3908 in Game Networking Engine
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the flush_output function in ConsoleStreambuf.cpp in Game Network Engine (GNE) 0.70 and earlier allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute code via format string specifiers in unspecified vectors involving output to the gout console.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/18/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3908 represents a critical format string flaw within the Game Network Engine version 0.70 and earlier implementations. This security weakness resides in the flush_output function of the ConsoleStreambuf.cpp component, which serves as a crucial interface for console output operations within the gaming network framework. The flaw manifests when the system processes user-supplied data through improper format string handling, creating a pathway for malicious exploitation that can compromise system stability and potentially enable arbitrary code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-134, which specifically addresses the use of format strings without proper validation or sanitization. When the flush_output function processes output to the gout console, it fails to properly validate or escape format specifiers that may be present in user input or network data. This creates a scenario where remote attackers can inject malicious format specifiers that the application subsequently interprets as commands rather than plain text, leading to unpredictable behavior. The vulnerability operates through unspecified vectors that involve the processing of console output, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through various network communication channels.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable remote code execution, making it a severe threat to gaming network environments. When exploited, the format string vulnerability can cause the application to crash and terminate unexpectedly, resulting in service disruption for legitimate users. However, the more concerning aspect is the potential for code execution, which would allow attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected systems. This threat is particularly significant in networked gaming environments where multiple players interact through a shared infrastructure, as it could enable attackers to compromise not just individual client systems but entire gaming networks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the Game Network Engine to version 0.71 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the format string handling. System administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable components to untrusted networks. Additionally, input validation mechanisms should be strengthened to ensure that all user-supplied data is properly sanitized before processing, particularly when dealing with console output operations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation relies on manipulating console output through format string vulnerabilities that can be leveraged for system compromise. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive logging of console output operations to aid in forensic analysis and threat hunting activities.