CVE-2007-5144 in Windows Live Messenger
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the GDI engine in Windows Live Messenger, as used for Windows MSN Live 8.1, allows user-assisted remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash or system crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code by placing a malformed file in a new folder under the Sharing Folders path, and triggering a synchronize operation through the Windows MSN Live online service, possibly related to extended file attributes and possibly related to an incomplete fix for MS07-046, as demonstrated by a (1) .jpg, (2) .gif, (3) .wmf, (4) .doc, or (5) .ico file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-5144 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Graphics Device Interface (GDI) engine component of Windows Live Messenger version 8.1. This issue specifically affects the handling of extended file attributes during synchronization operations, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the system through carefully crafted file manipulation. The vulnerability manifests when users place malformed files within the Sharing Folders directory structure, which then triggers a synchronization process that ultimately leads to system instability or potential code execution. The attack vector requires user interaction, as the malicious files must be placed in a specific location before triggering the vulnerable code path during normal operation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the GDI engine's processing of file metadata, particularly when handling extended attributes associated with various file types including image formats like .jpg and .gif, vector graphics .wmf, document files .doc, and icon files .ico. This flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates through the legitimate synchronization mechanisms of the MSN Live service, making it difficult to detect and prevent through standard network monitoring approaches.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-5144 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the vulnerability may enable remote code execution capabilities that could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to affected systems. When triggered through the synchronization process, the buffer overflow can cause Windows Live Messenger to crash or potentially allow malicious code execution with the privileges of the affected user. This represents a significant security risk in enterprise environments where instant messaging systems are commonly used for business communications, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise or data exfiltration. The vulnerability's relationship to the previously patched MS07-046 issue suggests that the fix was incomplete or inadequately addressed the root cause of the memory handling problem.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and potentially CWE-122, concerning heap-based buffer overflows. The attack pattern follows typical adversary techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1203, which covers legitimate credentials and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the Microsoft security update released as part of MS07-046, restricting file sharing permissions in the Messenger application, and monitoring for unusual synchronization activities. Network segmentation and endpoint protection solutions should be configured to detect and prevent file transfer operations that might trigger this vulnerability, particularly when dealing with executable or potentially malicious file types in shared directories.