CVE-2007-1614 in ZZIPlib
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the zzip_open_shared_io function in zzip/file.c in ZZIPlib Library before 0.13.49 allows user-assisted remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) or execute arbitrary code via a long filename.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2019
The CVE-2007-1614 vulnerability represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the ZZIPlib library version 0.13.48 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the zzip_open_shared_io function located in the zzip/file.c source file, making it a significant security concern for any system utilizing this library for archive handling operations. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation when processing archive filenames, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted archive files can trigger unintended memory corruption behaviors. This vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which classifies stack-based buffer overflow conditions that occur when insufficient bounds checking allows data to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a user-assisted remote attacker crafts an archive file containing an excessively long filename that exceeds the allocated buffer size within the zzip_open_shared_io function. When the library attempts to process this malformed filename, the stack buffer overflow manifests as either an application crash or potentially arbitrary code execution within the context of the vulnerable application. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local system access to exploit it, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where archive files might be processed automatically. The attack vector specifically targets the handling of compressed archive files, particularly those in zip format, where the library is commonly employed for decompression and file access operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1614 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the buffer overflow could potentially enable remote code execution depending on memory layout and exploitation conditions. Applications that utilize ZZIPlib for processing untrusted archive files become vulnerable to this attack, including web applications, file processing services, and automated systems that handle user-uploaded archives. The vulnerability affects systems where ZZIPlib is integrated as a dependency, particularly in environments where archive extraction occurs without proper input sanitization. This makes the flaw particularly dangerous in server environments where automated file processing is common, as attackers could potentially leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code on vulnerable systems. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed through standard network-based delivery methods, making it a preferred target for automated exploitation tools.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1614 primarily focus on upgrading to ZZIPlib version 0.13.49 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow condition. System administrators should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all affected systems receive the security update promptly. Additionally, input validation measures should be implemented at application layers that utilize ZZIPlib, including filename length restrictions and proper error handling for archive processing operations. Network-based mitigations such as content filtering and sandboxing of archive files can provide additional defense in depth. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers Exploitation for Client Execution, highlights the need for layered security approaches that include application whitelisting, network segmentation, and regular security assessments. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability pattern.