CVE-2007-1655 in TinyMUX
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the fun_ladd function in funmath.cpp in TinyMUX before 20070126 might allow remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) or possibly execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors related to lists of numbers.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1655 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the TinyMUX MUD server software, specifically within the fun_ladd function located in the funmath.cpp source file. This issue affects versions of TinyMUX prior to the 20070126 release, creating a significant security risk for systems utilizing this multi-user dungeon server implementation. The vulnerability manifests when processing lists of numbers through the mathematical function handling system, where insufficient input validation and boundary checking leads to memory corruption. The flaw falls under CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient space is allocated for data, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for network denial of service attacks. The affected system architecture processes user input through the MUD command interface, where mathematical operations involving number lists are handled by the vulnerable function.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow occurs when remote attackers submit specially crafted number list inputs that exceed the allocated buffer space within the fun_ladd function. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking during the processing of mathematical expressions that involve lists of numerical values, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can result in unpredictable program behavior, including application crashes that constitute a denial of service condition, or potentially more severe consequences if the overflow allows for code execution. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that TinyMUX servers are typically accessible over networks and may be targeted by automated exploitation tools. The function's handling of user-supplied data without proper sanitization creates an attack surface that adversaries can leverage to disrupt service availability or potentially gain unauthorized system access.
The operational consequences of this vulnerability extend beyond simple service disruption, as it represents a fundamental flaw in the software's memory management and input handling protocols. Systems running vulnerable versions of TinyMUX face risks of unauthorized access, data corruption, and complete service outages that can affect multiple users simultaneously within the MUD environment. The vulnerability's potential for arbitrary code execution places organizations at risk of full system compromise, particularly when the affected servers are not properly isolated or monitored. Network administrators must consider the broader implications for their security infrastructure, as this vulnerability could serve as an initial access point for more sophisticated attacks. The lack of proper input validation mechanisms within the mathematical function processing pipeline creates persistent risks that require immediate remediation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1655 must prioritize immediate software updates to versions released after January 26, 2007, which contain the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable TinyMUX instances to untrusted networks. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in legacy systems, particularly focusing on memory management practices and input validation routines. The implementation of intrusion detection systems can help monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability, while application-level firewalls may provide additional protection layers. Security teams should also consider the broader context of legacy MUD server implementations and their continued use in modern environments, as these systems often lack proper security updates and may harbor additional undiscovered vulnerabilities. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patched version operates correctly while maintaining all intended functionality for legitimate users.