CVE-2007-2447 in Samba
Summary
by MITRE
The MS-RPC functionality in smbd in Samba 3.0.0 through 3.0.25rc3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters involving the (1) SamrChangePassword function, when the "username map script" smb.conf option is enabled, and allows remote authenticated users to execute commands via shell metacharacters involving other MS-RPC functions in the (2) remote printer and (3) file share management.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2447 represents a critical command injection flaw within the Server Message Block (SMB) implementation of Samba versions 3.0.0 through 3.0.25rc3. This security weakness specifically targets the Microsoft Remote Procedure Call (MS-RPC) functionality that operates within the smbd daemon, which serves as the primary SMB/CIFS server component in Samba implementations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization when processing user-supplied data through MS-RPC interfaces, creating an avenue for remote code execution that can be exploited by both unauthenticated and authenticated attackers depending on the specific function targeted.
The technical exploitation occurs through the manipulation of shell metacharacters within MS-RPC function calls, particularly affecting the SamrChangePassword function where the "username map script" smb.conf option is enabled. When this configuration is active, the system processes user input through shell commands that are executed without proper sanitization, allowing attackers to inject malicious shell code that gets interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system. The vulnerability extends beyond the password change function to encompass other MS-RPC interfaces including remote printer management and file share management functions, broadening the attack surface significantly.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the smbd process, which typically runs with elevated system permissions. This allows for complete system compromise, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability's reach is particularly concerning because it affects the core SMB functionality that many organizations rely on for file sharing and network communication, potentially enabling attackers to gain persistent access to critical network resources.
The attack vectors for this vulnerability encompass both remote unauthenticated and authenticated scenarios, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Samba servers are exposed to external networks. According to CWE classification, this represents a Command Injection vulnerability (CWE-77) that allows arbitrary code execution through improper input handling, while the ATT&CK framework would categorize this under Execution and Privilege Escalation tactics. Organizations utilizing Samba versions within the affected range should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the vulnerable username map script functionality, applying the appropriate security patches, and configuring proper network segmentation to limit exposure of Samba services to untrusted networks. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious MS-RPC activity and implementing input validation controls can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts.