CVE-2007-4005 in Windows RSH daemon
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Mike Dubman Windows RSH daemon (rshd) 1.7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string to the shell port (514/tcp). NOTE: this might overlap CVE-2007-4006.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4005 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the Windows RSH daemon version 1.7 developed by Mike Dubman. This flaw exists in the daemon's handling of input data when processing connections on the standard shell port 514/tcp, which is the designated port for remote shell services. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking mechanisms within the daemon's code structure, specifically when processing user-supplied data that exceeds the allocated buffer space on the stack memory allocation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker sends a specially crafted malformed string to the rshd service running on port 514. The daemon fails to properly validate the length of incoming data, causing the buffer overflow condition when the input string exceeds the predefined buffer capacity. This overflow corrupts adjacent memory locations on the stack, potentially allowing an attacker to overwrite critical program execution control data such as return addresses, function pointers, or other stack-based variables. The compromised control flow enables remote code execution with the privileges of the rshd process, typically running with elevated system permissions.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe security risk to systems running the affected rshd daemon, as it allows unauthorized remote code execution without requiring authentication. The attack surface is particularly concerning since the service typically runs on a well-known port and may be accessible from external networks. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and potential use as a foothold for further network infiltration activities. The overlap with CVE-2007-4006 suggests this may represent a broader class of vulnerabilities within the rshd implementation that require comprehensive remediation.
Security practitioners should address this vulnerability through immediate patching of the affected rshd daemon version 1.7, as no reliable workarounds exist for this specific buffer overflow condition. The mitigation strategy should include disabling the rshd service entirely if remote shell functionality is not absolutely required, implementing network segmentation to restrict access to port 514, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious traffic patterns on this port. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified under the broader category of CWE-119 Improper Restriction of Operations within the Stack, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: Unix Shell. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls and monitoring for unauthorized rshd service usage to prevent exploitation attempts.
The vulnerability demonstrates the persistent risks associated with legacy remote administration services and highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches for all network services. Given the nature of stack-based buffer overflows, this represents a classic exploit pattern that remains relevant in modern cybersecurity contexts, emphasizing the need for robust input validation practices and secure coding standards throughout software development lifecycles.