CVE-2007-1470 in LIBFtp
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in LIBFtp 5.0 allow user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via certain long arguments to the (1) FtpArchie, (2) FtpDebugDebug, (3) FtpOpenDir, (4) FtpSize, or (5) FtpChmod function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1470 represents a critical buffer overflow issue within LIBFtp version 5.0 that exposes multiple attack vectors through specific function calls. This flaw affects the FtpArchie, FtpDebugDebug, FtpOpenDir, FtpSize, and FtpChmod functions, creating a significant security risk for systems utilizing this library. The vulnerability operates under the principle of user-assisted remote execution, meaning that an attacker must convince a user to interact with a maliciously crafted argument, but once triggered, the consequences can be severe.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the affected library functions. When these functions receive arguments exceeding predetermined buffer sizes, memory corruption occurs that can be exploited to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of flaw directly maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The buffer overflow vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the program execution flow by overwriting return addresses or function pointers, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected application.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a substantial risk to network security infrastructure that relies on LIBFtp for file transfer operations. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to systems, escalate privileges, or execute malicious code remotely without requiring direct system access. The user-assisted nature of the attack means that social engineering elements may be required to initiate the exploit, but once the malicious argument is processed, the system becomes compromised. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation for execution through buffer overflow attacks, and T1072, which covers the use of remote services for lateral movement and code execution.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data breach scenarios. Systems utilizing LIBFtp for FTP operations, particularly those exposed to untrusted network environments, face significant risk. The affected functions are commonly used in network file transfer operations, making the attack surface particularly broad. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through library updates or patches, as the vulnerability provides a direct pathway for attackers to gain system control. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of systems utilizing vulnerable versions of LIBFtp. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in network security libraries, emphasizing the need for regular security assessments and vulnerability management processes to prevent exploitation of similar flaws in other software components.