CVE-2007-5155 in ICEOWS
Summary
by MITRE
IceGUI.DLL in ICEOWS 4.20b invokes a function with incorrect arguments, which allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long filename in the header of an ACE archive, which triggers a stack-based buffer overflow.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5155 resides within IceGUI.DLL component of ICEOWS version 4.20b, representing a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw that can be exploited through remote code execution. This issue manifests when the software processes ACE archive files containing excessively long filenames in their headers, creating a scenario where insufficient input validation leads to memory corruption. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of archive metadata during extraction operations, where the software fails to properly validate the length of filename fields within the ACE format header structure. The flaw enables attackers to craft malicious ACE archives that, when processed by the vulnerable software, cause the program to write beyond allocated memory boundaries, resulting in unpredictable behavior and potential code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern of stack-based buffer overflow attacks, where attacker-controlled data exceeds the bounds of a fixed-length buffer allocated on the stack. The CWE-121 classification applies here as the vulnerability involves stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. When an ACE archive with an overly long filename header is processed, the IceGUI.DLL module attempts to copy this data into a fixed-size buffer without proper length verification, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. The attack vector requires user interaction through opening or processing the malicious archive file, making it a user-assisted remote attack rather than a fully automated exploit.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a significant security risk for systems running vulnerable versions of ICEOWS software. Attackers can potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable application, which could lead to complete system compromise if the application runs with elevated permissions. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on ACE archive processing capabilities, particularly those in environments where untrusted archive files might be processed automatically or by unsuspecting users. The exploitability factor is relatively high due to the straightforward nature of crafting malicious ACE files and the minimal user interaction required for exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate software updates and patches provided by the vendor, as well as implementing defensive measures such as input validation controls and restricted file processing permissions. Organizations should consider implementing sandboxing techniques for archive processing operations and establishing strict file type validation policies to prevent processing of potentially malicious archives. The ATT&CK framework's T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter execution should be monitored, as this vulnerability could enable attackers to establish persistent access through executed malicious code. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs, while regular security assessments should verify that all instances of ICEOWS software have been properly updated to address this specific buffer overflow vulnerability.