CVE-2007-0315 in FileZilla
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in FileZilla before 2.2.30a allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (application crash) via unspecified vectors related to (1) Options.cpp when storing settings in the registry, and (2) the transfer queue (QueueCtrl.cpp). NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-0315 represents a critical security flaw in FileZilla client software versions prior to 2.2.30a, specifically targeting buffer overflow conditions that can be exploited remotely to achieve arbitrary code execution or denial of service. This vulnerability affects the core functionality of the FileZilla application by compromising memory management routines in two distinct components of the software architecture. The flaw manifests in the Options.cpp module responsible for storing application settings within the Windows registry and in QueueCtrl.cpp which manages the file transfer queue operations, both of which are fundamental components in the application's operational flow.
The technical implementation of these buffer overflows occurs when the application processes user input or configuration data without proper bounds checking mechanisms. In the Options.cpp component, when storing settings to the Windows registry, the application fails to validate the length of input data before copying it into fixed-size memory buffers, creating opportunities for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. Similarly, in QueueCtrl.cpp, the transfer queue management functionality contains similar memory corruption vulnerabilities during file operation handling. These buffer overflow conditions fall under the CWE-121 CWE-122 and CWE-787 categories, representing classic stack-based and heap-based buffer overflow scenarios that can be exploited through carefully crafted input sequences.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application instability to encompass full system compromise potential. Remote attackers can exploit these conditions to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the FileZilla process, which typically runs with user-level permissions but could potentially be elevated through additional attack vectors. The denial of service aspect of this vulnerability creates immediate availability concerns, as application crashes can disrupt file transfer operations and potentially cause data loss during critical operations. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require local system access, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where FileZilla clients may be exposed to untrusted networks.
From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious payloads through the compromised application. The attack surface is particularly concerning given FileZilla's widespread use in enterprise environments for file transfer operations, where the compromise of a single client could provide access to sensitive data or serve as a foothold for broader network infiltration. Security professionals should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual FileZilla process behavior as part of their defensive strategies against this class of vulnerability.
The remediation approach requires immediate patch deployment to FileZilla versions 2.2.30a and later, which address the buffer overflow conditions through proper input validation and memory management practices. Organizations should also implement application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unpatched versions and monitor for potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and proper memory safety practices in client applications, particularly those handling user input or system configuration data. Additionally, organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify other applications running on their networks that may be similarly susceptible to buffer overflow conditions, as these remain among the most prevalent and dangerous classes of software vulnerabilities in the cybersecurity landscape.