CVE-2007-1501 in Avant Browser
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Avant Browser 11.0 build 26 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a long Content-Type HTTP header.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1501 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw discovered in Avant Browser version 11.0 build 26. This security defect resides within the browser's handling of HTTP response headers, specifically the Content-Type header field, which serves as a fundamental component in web communication protocols. The flaw manifests when the browser processes HTTP responses containing excessively long Content-Type header values, creating an exploitable condition that can be remotely triggered by malicious web servers or intermediaries. The vulnerability operates under the well-established CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow category, which falls under the broader classification of buffer overflow conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the browser's insufficient input validation mechanisms when processing HTTP headers. When Avant Browser encounters a Content-Type header exceeding the allocated stack buffer space, it fails to properly bounds-check the input data before copying it into memory. This oversight creates a situation where the excessive data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the stack frame and overwriting critical program execution elements such as return addresses or function pointers. The attack vector requires a remote web server to send a specially crafted HTTP response containing an overly long Content-Type header, which when processed by the vulnerable browser instance results in immediate program termination or potential code execution. This type of vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code through manipulated input data.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1501 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to encompass potential remote code execution capabilities that could compromise user systems. When successfully exploited, the buffer overflow can cause the browser to crash and terminate unexpectedly, resulting in denial of service for the affected user. However, the more severe implications arise from the possibility of arbitrary code execution, which could allow attackers to install malware, steal sensitive information, or gain unauthorized access to compromised systems. The vulnerability affects users who browse the internet with the specific vulnerable version of Avant Browser, making it particularly concerning given the browser's widespread adoption at the time of discovery. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it a highly effective vector for automated exploitation campaigns. Organizations and individuals using this browser version face significant security risks that could be exploited by threat actors to establish persistent access to target systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability focus primarily on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the vendor. Users should promptly upgrade to a patched version of Avant Browser that addresses the buffer overflow condition through proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. System administrators should implement network-level controls to monitor and filter HTTP headers, particularly those containing unusual Content-Type values that might indicate malicious activity. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. Additionally, browser hardening techniques such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and non-executable stack protections can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Security awareness training for end users remains crucial to prevent accidental exposure to malicious websites that might exploit this vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect anomalous HTTP traffic patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of regular security updates and proper input validation in web browser implementations, as outlined in industry best practices for secure software development and the principles of defensive programming.