CVE-2007-4832 in CellFactor Revolution
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in CellFactor Revolution 1.03 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in a malformed nickname.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4832 represents a critical format string vulnerability affecting CellFactor Revolution version 1.03 and earlier. This flaw resides in the application's handling of user-supplied nickname data, specifically when the software processes format specifiers without proper validation or sanitization. The vulnerability manifests when an attacker crafts a malicious nickname containing format string directives such as %s, %d, or %x, which are typically used to control output formatting in programming languages like C and C++. The affected application fails to properly escape or validate these specifiers, creating an opportunity for exploitation.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-134, which describes the weakness of using user-controlled format strings in functions like printf, sprintf, or fprintf. When the application processes a malformed nickname containing format specifiers, it inadvertently interprets these directives as instructions for memory access and data retrieval. This behavior enables attackers to perform memory disclosure attacks, where they can read arbitrary memory locations and potentially extract sensitive information such as stack contents, heap addresses, or even cryptographic keys. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means attackers can leverage this flaw from outside the target network without requiring local access or authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise through arbitrary code execution. Attackers can manipulate the format string to overwrite critical memory locations, including return addresses on the stack, thereby enabling them to redirect program execution flow. This technique, known as stack smashing or return-oriented programming, allows adversaries to inject and execute malicious code within the application's memory space. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that nickname fields are commonly used in online gaming platforms and communication applications, where users frequently interact with the system. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including chat systems, user profile management, or any interface where user-generated nicknames are processed and displayed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4832 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied data, particularly nickname fields, undergoes strict validation to prevent format string specifiers from being processed as instructions. The recommended approach involves using safe string handling functions such as snprintf instead of sprintf, and avoiding direct printf-style function calls with user input. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. Security patches should be applied immediately to update to versions of CellFactor Revolution that address this vulnerability, while organizations should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers may use the arbitrary code execution capability to establish persistent access or escalate privileges within the compromised system.