CVE-2007-4731 in ServerProtect
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the TMregChange function in TMReg.dll in Trend Micro ServerProtect before 5.58 Security Patch 4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted packet to TCP port 5005.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4731 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the Trend Micro ServerProtect software ecosystem, specifically within the TMReg.dll component. This flaw exists in the TMregChange function and affects versions prior to 5.58 Security Patch 4, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on this endpoint protection solution. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes incoming network packets on TCP port 5005, which serves as the default communication port for ServerProtect's registry management functionality. The buffer overflow occurs due to insufficient input validation and bounds checking within the TMregChange function, allowing malicious actors to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical program execution elements.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic stack-based buffer overflow attack pattern where an attacker crafts a specially formatted packet containing excessive data that exceeds the allocated buffer space within the TMregChange function. This overflow corrupts adjacent memory locations including the return address on the stack, enabling remote code execution with the privileges of the affected service. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it operates over a network connection, requiring no local access or authentication, making it suitable for automated exploitation across networks. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to enterprise environments running affected Trend Micro ServerProtect versions, as successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor access. The impact extends beyond individual system compromise to potentially affect entire network infrastructures, particularly since ServerProtect is commonly deployed as enterprise-wide endpoint protection solutions. Organizations utilizing default configurations that expose TCP port 5005 to external networks face heightened risk, as this port typically remains accessible to remote attackers without proper network segmentation. The vulnerability's remote exploitability makes it particularly attractive to automated attack tools and nation-state actors seeking to establish persistent access to target environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4731 primarily involve immediate deployment of Trend Micro's 5.58 Security Patch 4, which addresses the underlying buffer overflow through proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. Network segmentation should be implemented to restrict access to TCP port 5005, particularly preventing external exposure of this administrative port. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls and firewall rules that limit connections to this specific port to trusted administrative hosts only. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for suspicious packet patterns on port 5005 can help detect potential exploitation attempts, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for Application Layer Protocol: DNS and T1046 for Network Service Scanning. Regular vulnerability assessments and security audits should be conducted to identify any remaining exposure points and ensure comprehensive protection against similar vulnerabilities in other components of the ServerProtect suite.