CVE-2007-5037 in inotify-tools
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the inotifytools_snprintf function in src/inotifytools.c in the inotify-tools library before 3.11 allows context-dependent attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long filename.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5037 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the inotify-tools library, specifically affecting the inotifytools_snprintf function located in src/inotifytools.c. This library serves as a crucial component for monitoring file system events in Linux environments, enabling applications to receive notifications when file system objects are accessed, modified, or deleted. The flaw manifests when the library processes filenames that exceed predetermined buffer limits, creating a condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, which is classified as a serious security weakness that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is context-dependent, meaning that successful exploitation requires specific conditions to be met, typically involving the ability to control or influence the filename being processed by the vulnerable function.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs due to improper bounds checking within the inotifytools_snprintf function, which is responsible for formatting and storing file system event data. When a filename exceeds the allocated buffer space, the function fails to validate the input length before copying data into memory, allowing the overflow to occur. This memory corruption can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical program data structures, potentially enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow. The attack vector requires an attacker to have the ability to trigger file system events with excessively long filenames, which could be achieved through various means including crafted file operations, symbolic link manipulation, or exploitation of applications that rely on inotify-tools for file monitoring. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as inotify-tools is widely used in system monitoring, backup solutions, and security applications, making the potential impact widespread across different system configurations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can compromise the integrity and availability of systems that depend on inotify-tools for monitoring file system activities. When exploited successfully, attackers can gain arbitrary code execution privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise, privilege escalation, or persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability affects systems running inotify-tools versions prior to 3.11, which were commonly deployed in enterprise environments for file system monitoring, log aggregation, and security event detection. Organizations using applications that rely on inotify-tools for real-time file monitoring may experience service interruptions or unauthorized access when this vulnerability is exploited, as the buffer overflow can cause program crashes or unpredictable behavior. The attack complexity is moderate, as it requires the attacker to either have direct control over file system operations or to find a way to influence the filename data being processed by the vulnerable library.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5037 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates and system hardening measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to inotify-tools version 3.11 or later, where the buffer overflow vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and bounds checking. System administrators should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual file system activity patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on monitoring for long filename operations that could trigger the vulnerability. Additional protective measures include restricting file system access permissions, implementing proper input sanitization in applications that interface with inotify-tools, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file operations. From an operational security perspective, organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable versions of inotify-tools and prioritize patching based on risk assessment. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for execution via script-based commands and T1068 for privilege escalation, highlighting the potential for both initial compromise and subsequent system control. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to ensure that similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities are not present in other system components, as this type of flaw remains a common vector for exploitation in Linux environments.