CVE-2007-1528 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The LLTD Mapper in Microsoft Windows Vista allows remote attackers to spoof hosts, and nonexistent bridge relationships, into the network topology map by using a MAC address that differs from the MAC address provided in the Real Source field of the LLTD BASE header of a HELLO packet, aka the "Spoof on Bridge" attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/17/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1528 represents a significant security flaw in the Link-Layer Topology Discovery (LLTD) protocol implementation within Microsoft Windows Vista operating systems. This weakness resides in the LLTD Mapper component responsible for discovering and mapping network topology information, particularly affecting the bridge relationship detection mechanism. The vulnerability specifically targets the authentication and validation processes that occur during the LLTD HELLO packet exchange, where network devices communicate their presence and topology information to build a comprehensive network map.
The technical flaw exploits a fundamental inconsistency in the LLTD protocol's handling of MAC address validation within the BASE header of HELLO packets. When a malicious actor crafts a specially formatted LLTD packet, they can manipulate the MAC address field in the packet's header to differ from the actual source MAC address of the packet itself. This discrepancy occurs in the Real Source field of the LLTD BASE header, creating a scenario where the system accepts false bridge relationships and host spoofing attempts. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of the source MAC address against the claimed source address in the packet header, allowing attackers to inject false topology information into the network discovery process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple network disruption to potentially enable sophisticated attack vectors within enterprise environments. An attacker exploiting this weakness can introduce false network topology information that may confuse network management systems, potentially leading to misconfiguration of network devices or security controls. The spoofing capability allows adversaries to present false bridge relationships, which could be used to manipulate network routing decisions or to hide malicious network activity from legitimate monitoring tools. This vulnerability particularly affects networks that rely on LLTD for network discovery and management, creating opportunities for man-in-the-middle attacks or network reconnaissance activities that could be leveraged for more extensive compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require a multi-layered approach focusing on both network-level and system-level controls. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access control measures to limit the exposure of LLTD functionality to trusted network segments only. The most effective immediate solution involves disabling LLTD functionality on systems that do not require it, as the vulnerability can be exploited even when the service is running in a network environment with proper access controls. Network administrators should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous LLTD packet behavior and unusual topology changes. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically targeting insufficient validation of source addresses in network protocols. The attack pattern corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1562.007, which involves the exploitation of network protocols to manipulate network topology information. Organizations should also consider implementing network intrusion detection systems that can identify malformed LLTD packets and monitor for suspicious bridge relationship announcements that deviate from expected network topology patterns.