CVE-2007-2079 in Apache Distribution
Summary
by MITRE
The ADONewConnection Connect function in adodb.php in XAMPP 1.6.0a and earlier for Windows uses untrusted input for the database server hostname, which allows remote attackers to trigger a library buffer overflow and execute arbitrary code via a long host parameter, or have other unspecified impact. NOTE: it could be argued that this is an issue in mssql_connect (CVE-2007-1411.1) in PHP, or an issue in the ADOdb Library, and the proper fix should be in one of these products; if so, then this should not be treated as a vulnerability in XAMPP.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2079 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the ADONewConnection function of the adodb.php file in XAMPP versions 1.6.0a and earlier for Windows systems. This flaw stems from the improper handling of untrusted input parameters, specifically the database server hostname parameter that is passed to the connection function. The issue manifests when attackers provide excessively long host parameters that exceed the allocated buffer space, creating a condition where memory corruption occurs and potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the library level, affecting the underlying database connectivity mechanisms that are fundamental to web application functionality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The flaw occurs during the connection process when the ADOdb library fails to properly validate or sanitize the hostname parameter before processing it. When a maliciously crafted host parameter exceeds the predefined buffer limits, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical program execution structures. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through buffer overflow attacks. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be executed remotely without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data breach scenarios. When successfully exploited, attackers could gain unauthorized access to database servers, potentially leading to data theft, modification of critical information, or complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects not just individual applications but entire XAMPP installations that rely on the ADOdb library for database connectivity, creating a widespread attack surface. Organizations using vulnerable XAMPP versions face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where database connectivity is essential for business operations. The unspecified additional impacts mentioned in the CVE description suggest that the vulnerability may also enable denial of service conditions or information disclosure beyond direct code execution capabilities.
The remediation approach for this vulnerability requires addressing the root cause within the ADOdb library or PHP's mssql_connect function as indicated in the CVE description. The proper fix should involve implementing input validation and bounds checking on hostname parameters to prevent buffer overflow conditions. System administrators should immediately upgrade to XAMPP versions that contain patched ADOdb libraries or apply the appropriate security patches to the underlying PHP components. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious connection attempts that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly when handling user-provided data in critical system components. Given the nature of the flaw, it is recommended that all XAMPP installations be reviewed and updated to ensure compliance with current security standards and that organizations maintain awareness of similar vulnerabilities in third-party libraries that may be present in their web application stacks.