CVE-2007-0749 in Darwin Streaming Server
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in the is_command function in proxy.c in Apple Darwin Streaming Proxy, when using Darwin Streaming Server before 5.5.5, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long (1) cmd or (2) server value in an RTSP request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0749 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in Apple Darwin Streaming Proxy software that affects versions prior to 5.5.5. This vulnerability exists within the is_command function located in the proxy.c source file, specifically when processing RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol) requests. The flaw manifests when remote attackers send specially crafted RTSP requests containing excessively long command or server parameters, creating conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution on the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the network level, allowing attackers to exploit the system remotely without requiring local access or authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the is_command function where the proxy software fails to properly check the length of incoming RTSP command and server parameters. When these parameters exceed the allocated buffer space on the stack, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially overwriting critical program execution data such as return addresses, stack canaries, or function pointers. This overflow condition creates a classic exploitation vector that aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is categorized under the broader weakness type CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Write. The vulnerability specifically affects the RTSP protocol implementation within the Darwin Streaming Server ecosystem, making it particularly dangerous for media streaming environments where such servers are commonly deployed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation or denial of service scenarios. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the streaming proxy service. This capability enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying system, potentially leading to data exfiltration, lateral movement within the network, or establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's remote exploitability makes it particularly attractive to threat actors who can target streaming servers without physical access or network credentials. The affected environment typically includes organizations running Apple Darwin Streaming Server versions before 5.5.5, which were commonly deployed in enterprise media streaming infrastructures and content delivery networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0749 primarily focus on immediate software patching and deployment of the official Apple Darwin Streaming Server 5.5.5 update or later versions that contain the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow conditions. Network administrators should implement comprehensive monitoring of RTSP traffic to detect anomalous command or server parameter lengths that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of streaming servers to untrusted networks can reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution highlights the need for defensive measures that focus on preventing code execution in network services. Organizations should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems capable of recognizing patterns associated with RTSP buffer overflow exploitation attempts and maintain regular security assessments of their streaming infrastructure to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities.