CVE-2007-3512 in Lhaca File Archiver
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Lhaca File Archiver before 1.22 allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a large LHA "Extended Header Size" value in an LZH archive, a different issue than CVE-2007-3375.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-3512 represents a stack-based buffer overflow condition within the Lhaca File Archiver software version 1.21 and earlier. This flaw occurs when processing LZH archive files that contain specially crafted "Extended Header Size" values within their headers. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which is a critical weakness in memory management that can lead to arbitrary code execution when exploited properly. The issue specifically affects the handling of archive metadata rather than the core decompression logic, making it a user-assisted remote attack vector where an attacker must convince a victim to open a maliciously crafted archive file.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking during the parsing of LHA archive headers. When the Lhaca File Archiver processes an LZH file, it reads the Extended Header Size field and uses this value to allocate stack memory for header data processing. However, the software fails to validate that this size value remains within reasonable bounds before using it to determine stack allocation. This allows an attacker to specify an extremely large Extended Header Size value that exceeds the allocated stack buffer capacity, causing a stack overflow condition. The overflow corrupts adjacent stack memory, potentially overwriting return addresses and function pointers, which can be manipulated to redirect program execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise when exploited successfully. An attacker who can convince a user to open a malicious archive file can potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the Lhaca File Archiver application. This vulnerability operates under ATT&CK technique T1203 by leveraging application vulnerabilities to gain remote code execution capabilities. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond opening the malicious file, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently handle untrusted archive files. The vulnerability affects systems where Lhaca File Archiver is installed and used for decompressing LZH archives, which were commonly used in various operating systems and file sharing environments during the period when this vulnerability was active.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-3512 focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary and most effective mitigation is upgrading to Lhaca File Archiver version 1.22 or later, which includes proper bounds checking for Extended Header Size values. Organizations should implement automated patch management systems to ensure all instances of the vulnerable software are updated promptly. Additionally, security-conscious administrators should consider implementing file type restrictions and sandboxed environments for archive processing, particularly for untrusted files. Network-level protections such as content filtering and email scanning can help prevent malicious archives from reaching end users. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and proper memory management practices in software development, aligning with security best practices from NIST SP 800-160 and OWASP Top Ten security guidelines. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments of their software inventory to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other applications that may be susceptible to stack-based buffer overflows through improper input handling.