CVE-2007-2799 in file
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the "file" program 4.20, when running on 32-bit systems, as used in products including The Sleuth Kit, might allow user-assisted attackers to execute arbitrary code via a large file that triggers an overflow that bypasses an assert() statement. NOTE: this issue is due to an incorrect patch for CVE-2007-1536.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2799 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the file command version 4.20, specifically affecting 32-bit systems. This issue manifests when the program processes large files that trigger an integer overflow condition, allowing attackers to bypass an assert() statement that was intended to prevent malicious input. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it stems from an incorrect patch implementation for CVE-2007-1536, indicating a flawed remediation approach that inadvertently created a new attack vector rather than fixing the original security issue.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through careful manipulation of file sizes that cause integer overflow conditions in the 32-bit file command implementation. When processing files that exceed certain size thresholds, the program's internal integer calculations overflow, resulting in unexpected behavior that can be leveraged to bypass security checks. The assert() statement, which should have prevented execution of malformed input, becomes ineffective due to the overflow condition, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-190, Integer Overflow or Wraparound, which specifically addresses situations where integer arithmetic results in values that exceed the maximum representable value for the data type.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond the immediate file command, as it affects The Sleuth Kit and other products that rely on this component for file analysis and forensic operations. Attackers can exploit this flaw by crafting specially designed files that trigger the overflow condition, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The user-assisted nature of the attack means that the vulnerability requires some form of user interaction, such as opening or analyzing a malicious file, but the underlying flaw makes it relatively straightforward to exploit in practice. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of thorough testing when applying security patches, as the incorrect patch for CVE-2007-1536 created a more dangerous condition than the original issue.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2799 should focus on immediate remediation through proper patching of the file command to address the integer overflow condition correctly. Organizations should ensure that all systems running vulnerable versions of The Sleuth Kit or related forensic tools are updated to versions that properly handle integer overflow conditions without creating new security gaps. Additionally, implementing input validation controls and monitoring for suspicious file size patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of patch implementations, as the issue represents a classic case where remediation efforts inadvertently created additional exposure windows. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and code execution through software exploitation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining secure software supply chains and proper vulnerability management processes.