CVE-2007-3360 in BitchX
Summary
by MITRE
hook.c in BitchX 1.1-final allows remote IRC servers to execute arbitrary commands by sending a client certain data containing NICK and EXEC strings, which exceeds the bounds of a hash table, and injects an EXEC hook function that receives and executes shell commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3360 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in BitchX 1.1-final, an open-source internet relay chat client. This security weakness stems from improper input validation within the hook.c component, specifically in how the software handles certain data sequences received from remote IRC servers. The vulnerability operates through a sophisticated injection mechanism that exploits the client's hash table implementation and hook function execution system. When a remote IRC server sends carefully crafted data containing both NICK and EXEC strings, the malicious payload triggers a buffer overflow condition that extends beyond the bounds of the hash table structure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully constructed sequence where the malicious IRC server transmits data that appears legitimate to the BitchX client but contains embedded command execution directives. The software's hash table implementation fails to properly validate the length and content of incoming data, allowing an attacker to manipulate the hash table boundaries and inject a malicious EXEC hook function. This hook function operates with elevated privileges since it executes within the context of the IRC client process, potentially enabling full system compromise. The flaw demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and inadequate bounds checking mechanisms that are fundamental requirements in secure software development.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-3360 extends beyond simple command execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. An attacker controlling a remote IRC server can execute arbitrary shell commands on any victim machine running the vulnerable BitchX client, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data, establishing persistent backdoors, or using the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where IRC clients are used for communication and collaboration, as it allows attackers to exploit the trust relationship between IRC servers and clients. The remote nature of the attack means that no local access or user interaction is required for exploitation, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise and networked environments.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-78, representing improper neutralization of special elements used in shell commands. The attack vector follows patterns commonly associated with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the execution of malicious code through command and scripting interpreters. The exploitation mechanism also reflects elements of T1071.004, involving application layer protocols for communication, as the attack utilizes IRC protocol elements. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of the BitchX client to version 1.2 or later, implementing network-level restrictions on IRC traffic, and applying input validation measures to prevent malformed data from reaching the vulnerable components. Additionally, organizations should consider network segmentation and monitoring to detect suspicious IRC traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.