CVE-2007-4257 in Live for Speed
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in Live for Speed (LFS) S1 and S2 allow user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) a .spr file (single player replay file) containing a long user name or (2) a .ply file containing a long number plate string, different vectors than CVE-2007-4140.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4257 affects Live for Speed versions S1 and S2, representing a critical buffer overflow issue that enables remote code execution through user-assisted attacks. This flaw exists within the game's file processing mechanisms, specifically targeting the handling of replay files and player data. The vulnerability operates through two distinct attack vectors that leverage improper input validation in the game's parsing routines. The first vector involves manipulation of .spr files, which are single player replay files that store gameplay data including player information. The second vector targets .ply files that contain player-specific data including number plate strings. Both attack paths exploit insufficient bounds checking in the game engine's memory management systems, creating opportunities for attackers to overflow buffers and potentially execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization within the game's file parsing code. When the game processes .spr files containing excessively long user names, or .ply files with extended number plate strings, the software fails to validate the length of these inputs against predetermined buffer sizes. This allows attackers to craft malicious files that exceed the allocated memory space, causing stack corruption and potential code execution. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121, which deals with stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The attack requires user assistance, meaning that victims must willingly open the malicious files, typically through social engineering or deceptive file sharing practices. This classification places the vulnerability in the context of CWE-471, which covers the use of non-constant strings in security-sensitive contexts, and CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-4257 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential persistence mechanisms within gaming environments. Successful exploitation allows remote attackers to gain control over systems running vulnerable versions of Live for Speed, potentially enabling further reconnaissance activities or lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability's presence in a gaming application creates unique operational challenges, as gamers often share files freely through community platforms, making social engineering attacks particularly effective. Attackers can distribute malicious .spr or .ply files through legitimate game communities, forums, or peer-to-peer networks, where users may unknowingly download and execute compromised content. This vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers the use of scripting languages for execution, and T1068, which addresses the exploitation of remote services. The gaming environment also presents opportunities for privilege escalation, as the game may run with elevated permissions or access to system resources that could be leveraged by attackers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4257 primarily focus on input validation and software updates. The most effective approach involves applying vendor-provided patches that implement proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms for file processing routines. System administrators should enforce strict file access controls and implement sandboxing mechanisms for game execution environments to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Network-level protections such as intrusion detection systems can monitor for suspicious file transfers or patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Users should be educated about the risks of downloading files from untrusted sources and the importance of maintaining updated game versions. Security configurations should include regular vulnerability assessments of gaming applications and their associated file formats. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can prevent execution of unauthorized game modifications or potentially malicious files. Additionally, network segmentation strategies can limit the spread of exploitation attempts within enterprise environments, while endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor for unusual file processing activities related to game files. These measures collectively address the vulnerability's attack surface while maintaining operational functionality within gaming environments.