CVE-2007-1917 in RFC Library
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the SYSTEM_CREATE_INSTANCE function in the SAP RFC Library 6.40 and 7.00 before 20061211 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors. NOTE: This information is based upon a vague initial disclosure. Details will be updated after the grace period has ended.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/19/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1917 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the SAP RFC Library version 6.40 and 7.00, prior to the 20061211 patch release. This vulnerability resides in the SYSTEM_CREATE_INSTANCE function, which serves as a fundamental component for establishing remote function call connections within SAP environments. The buffer overflow condition occurs when the system processes input data without proper bounds checking, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized code execution privileges. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw places it within the high-risk category of security vulnerabilities that can be exploited over network connections without requiring authentication or local access to the target system.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the RFC library's system creation function. When processing external data streams or parameters, the SYSTEM_CREATE_INSTANCE function fails to properly validate the length of incoming buffers, allowing maliciously crafted input to exceed allocated memory boundaries. This condition typically occurs when the application attempts to copy data into a fixed-size buffer without verifying that the source data will fit within the allocated space, creating a classic buffer overflow scenario that can be exploited through stack-based memory corruption. The vulnerability's nature aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based and stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and potentially CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. The attack vector remains unspecified in the initial disclosure, suggesting that multiple pathways could potentially be exploited, including network-based attacks against RFC listener services or other network-facing components that utilize this library function.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1917 extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise within SAP environments. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected SAP service account, potentially leading to data theft, system modification, or further network lateral movement. In enterprise SAP deployments, where these systems often handle critical business data and process sensitive transactions, the consequences of exploitation can be severe, potentially affecting financial records, customer information, and operational continuity. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to carry out attacks, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed SAP systems on public networks. Organizations utilizing affected SAP versions face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches, especially in environments where SAP systems are not properly isolated from external network access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1917 primarily focus on immediate patching and network security measures. Organizations should prioritize applying the security patch released by SAP on or before 20061211, which addresses the buffer overflow condition in the RFC library. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and firewall rules to restrict access to SAP RFC ports can significantly reduce the attack surface, limiting exposure to unauthorized network access. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059, which involves the execution of malicious code through system services, and T1071, which covers application layer protocol usage for command and control communications. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual RFC traffic patterns or attempts to exploit buffer overflow conditions. Security administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts and establish logging controls to track access to SAP systems. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected SAP RFC library versions and prioritize remediation efforts based on risk exposure and business criticality of the affected systems.