CVE-2007-0803 in STLport
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in STLport before 5.0.3 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors relating to (1) "print floats" and (2) a missing null termination in the "rope constructor."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-0803 represents a critical security flaw within the STLport standard library implementation that affected versions prior to 5.0.3. This issue manifests through two distinct buffer overflow conditions that collectively create opportunities for remote code execution. The first vector involves improper handling of floating-point number formatting during print operations, while the second stems from inadequate null termination within the rope data structure constructor. Both vulnerabilities arise from fundamental flaws in memory management and string handling within the standard template library implementation.
The technical implementation of these buffer overflows demonstrates a classic pattern of insufficient bounds checking in C++ standard library components. The "print floats" vulnerability occurs when the library processes floating-point numbers for output formatting, where the code fails to properly validate input lengths against allocated buffer boundaries. This particular flaw aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The rope constructor issue manifests as a missing null termination during string construction, creating a classic buffer overflow condition that can be exploited through crafted input data. This specific weakness corresponds to CWE-120, which covers buffer overflow conditions due to improper handling of string termination.
From an operational perspective, these vulnerabilities present significant risks to systems utilizing STLport versions below 5.0.3, particularly in server environments where remote code execution could lead to complete system compromise. The remote attack vector means that adversaries need only send malicious input to trigger the buffer overflows, making exploitation relatively straightforward and potentially automated. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential denial of service conditions, data corruption, and privilege escalation opportunities. Attackers leveraging these vulnerabilities could gain unauthorized access to systems, potentially leading to full system compromise and persistent access. The nature of these flaws in a widely-used standard library component amplifies their potential impact across multiple applications and platforms.
The remediation strategy for CVE-2007-0803 centers on upgrading to STLport version 5.0.3 or later, which includes patches addressing both buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive updates promptly. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and non-executable stack protections can provide defense-in-depth measures against exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual input patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly around floating-point formatting operations and string manipulation functions. The ATT&CK framework categorizes these vulnerabilities under T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter techniques, and T1133, which addresses external remote services. System administrators should also consider implementing input validation controls and restricting network access to applications using vulnerable STLport versions until patches are applied. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current versions of standard library implementations and conducting regular security assessments of third-party components in software supply chains.