CVE-2007-1666 in IDA Pro
Summary
by MITRE
The processor_request function in the debugger server for DataRescue IDA Pro 5.0 and 5.1 does not verify that authentication has taken place before invoking the perform_request function, which allows remote attackers to perform unauthorized actions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/10/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1666 represents a critical authentication bypass flaw within the debugger server component of DataRescue IDA Pro version 5.0 and 5.1. This issue resides in the processor_request function which fails to validate authentication status before proceeding to execute the perform_request function. The flaw creates a scenario where unauthenticated remote attackers can exploit this weakness to execute unauthorized operations against the debugger server. The vulnerability directly impacts the security model of the application by allowing attackers to circumvent the intended authentication mechanisms and gain access to privileged functions without proper credentials.
From a technical perspective, the flaw demonstrates a classic improper authentication vulnerability that aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems. The processor_request function operates under the assumption that authentication has already been validated, but this verification step is completely omitted from the code logic. When a remote attacker sends a specially crafted request to the debugger server, the system processes the request through the perform_request function without first confirming that the requester has been properly authenticated. This design flaw represents a fundamental failure in the application's security architecture where the principle of least privilege is violated, allowing unauthorized access to critical system functions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables remote attackers to perform arbitrary actions within the debugger server environment. Attackers can potentially manipulate debug sessions, access sensitive data, modify system configurations, or even execute malicious code on the target system. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access or local system privileges to exploit this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments. This weakness could be leveraged by attackers to compromise the integrity of debug sessions, steal intellectual property, or establish persistent access points within target networks. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services, and T1078, which addresses legitimate credentials use.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper authentication verification mechanisms within the processor_request function. The most effective approach involves adding explicit authentication checks before any privileged operations are executed, ensuring that the perform_request function is only invoked when proper authentication has been established. Security patches should enforce mandatory authentication validation and implement proper session management controls. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation, firewall rules, and access control lists to limit exposure of the debugger server to trusted networks only. Additionally, monitoring and logging mechanisms should be enhanced to detect suspicious authentication attempts and unauthorized access patterns. The fix should align with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and ISO/IEC 27001 standards for authentication and access control, ensuring that the system properly enforces the principle of least privilege and maintains proper audit trails of all security-relevant events.