CVE-2007-2055 in AFFLIB
Summary
by MITRE
AFFLIB 2.2.8 and earlier allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters involving (1) certain command line parameters in tools/afconvert.cpp and (2) arguments to the get_parameter function in aimage/ident.cpp. NOTE: it is unknown if the get_parameter vector (2) is ever called.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2055 affects AFFLIB version 2.2.8 and earlier, representing a critical command injection flaw that could enable remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on systems utilizing these affected libraries. This issue stems from insufficient input validation within two specific components of the AFFLIB software suite, creating potential attack vectors that could compromise system integrity and confidentiality. The vulnerability specifically targets command line parameter processing in tools/afconvert.cpp and argument handling within the get_parameter function located in aimage/ident.cpp, both of which are integral parts of the Advanced Forensic Format library used for digital forensics operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of shell metacharacters within command line arguments or function parameters, allowing attackers to inject malicious commands that will be executed by the underlying shell. When AFFLIB processes user-supplied input without proper sanitization, it becomes susceptible to command injection attacks where crafted input can be interpreted as shell commands rather than benign data. The flaw in tools/afconvert.cpp demonstrates a classic vulnerability where command line parameters are directly passed to shell execution functions without adequate filtering or escaping mechanisms. Similarly, the get_parameter function in aimage/ident.cpp presents a potential attack surface where arguments are processed without proper input validation, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate program flow through carefully crafted inputs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to forensic systems, potentially compromising sensitive digital evidence and undermining the integrity of forensic investigations. Systems that rely on AFFLIB for forensic analysis, including law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity teams, and digital forensics laboratories, could be at risk of complete system compromise if attackers exploit these vulnerabilities. The unknown nature of whether the get_parameter vector is ever called adds complexity to risk assessment, as it suggests potential dormant attack surfaces that could be activated under specific conditions. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in shell commands, a fundamental weakness in software security that has been consistently documented in various security frameworks and standards.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected AFFLIB versions to 2.2.9 or later, which would contain the necessary input validation fixes to prevent command injection attacks. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation mechanisms across all components that process user-supplied data, ensuring that shell metacharacters are properly escaped or filtered before any processing occurs. Security teams should conduct thorough audits of their forensic toolchains to identify any other components that might be vulnerable to similar injection attacks, particularly those that handle external inputs through shell execution contexts. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this vulnerability under T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, highlighting the need for defensive measures that monitor and control shell command execution patterns. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security assessments would help reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts, while maintaining proper logging and monitoring capabilities to detect any unauthorized command execution activities.