CVE-2007-4572 in Samba
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in nmbd in Samba 3.0.0 through 3.0.26a, when configured as a Primary or Backup Domain controller, allows remote attackers to have an unknown impact via crafted GETDC mailslot requests, related to handling of GETDC logon server requests.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/31/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4572 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow in the nmbd component of Samba versions 3.0.0 through 3.0.26a. This flaw specifically manifests when Samba is configured as either a Primary Domain Controller or Backup Domain Controller within Windows Active Directory environments. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation during the processing of GETDC mailslot requests, which are fundamental communication mechanisms used by Windows clients to discover domain controllers. The nmbd service, responsible for NetBIOS name service operations and domain controller discovery, fails to properly bounds-check data received in these mailslot requests, creating a predictable buffer overflow condition that can be exploited by remote attackers. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the Windows domain enumeration process where clients request domain controller information through the NetBIOS Datagram Service.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow occurs when an attacker crafts malicious GETDC mailslot requests that contain oversized data payloads designed to exceed the allocated buffer space within the nmbd process memory stack. According to CWE-121, this represents a classic stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability where the attacker can overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data structures. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication, making it a remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited from outside the network perimeter. The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as demonstrated by the unspecified nature of the attack consequences, which could include arbitrary code execution, privilege escalation, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability is classified under the ATT&CK framework as a remote code execution technique through service exploitation, specifically targeting Windows domain services and network infrastructure components.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-4572 is severe for organizations relying on Samba as their domain controller implementation, particularly in mixed Windows-Linux environments where Samba serves as a bridge between different operating system domains. When successfully exploited, this vulnerability can allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to domain controller functionality, potentially enabling them to impersonate domain controllers, intercept authentication traffic, or establish persistent access to the domain infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core domain enumeration and authentication mechanisms that form the foundation of Windows domain security, making it particularly attractive to attackers seeking to escalate privileges or establish footholds within enterprise networks. Organizations using Samba as a domain controller must consider the cascading effects of such a compromise, as domain controller compromise can lead to widespread network infiltration and data exfiltration opportunities. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is further amplified by the fact that it operates at the network level and can be triggered through standard domain discovery protocols, making detection and prevention more challenging than traditional application-level attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4572 should focus on immediate patching of affected Samba versions, with the implementation of network segmentation to limit exposure of domain controller services to untrusted networks. Organizations should implement network monitoring to detect unusual GETDC mailslot traffic patterns and establish robust firewall rules to restrict access to nmbd ports, typically UDP 137 and 138, from untrusted sources. The deployment of intrusion detection systems with signature-based detection for known malicious mailslot request patterns can provide additional layers of protection. System administrators should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for Samba services, limiting the exposure of domain controller functionality to only necessary network segments. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable Samba versions and establish patch management processes to ensure timely updates. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date network services and the potential consequences of running outdated software in enterprise environments, particularly when such software handles authentication and authorization functions.