CVE-2007-5262 in Dropteam
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple format string vulnerabilities in Battlefront Dropteam 1.3.3 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via format string specifiers in the (1) username, (2) password, and (3) nickname fields in a "0x01" packet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5262 represents a critical format string vulnerability affecting Battlefront Dropteam versions 1.3.3 and earlier. This issue resides in the network protocol implementation where the application fails to properly validate and sanitize user input before processing it through format string functions. The vulnerability specifically targets the username, password, and nickname fields within the "0x01" packet structure, which are commonly used during client authentication and connection establishment processes. Format string vulnerabilities occur when application code uses user-supplied data as format strings without proper validation, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code. This particular flaw demonstrates a fundamental security oversight in input handling mechanisms that directly impacts the authentication and connection phases of the network protocol.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the inherent properties of format string functions such as printf, sprintf, or fprintf, where attackers can inject format specifiers that reference memory locations. In the context of Battlefront Dropteam, when the application processes the "0x01" packet containing user credentials, it likely employs these functions to parse and store the provided information. Attackers can manipulate the username, password, or nickname fields to include format specifiers like %x, %s, or %n, which can lead to information disclosure, stack corruption, or direct code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects multiple fields within the same packet structure, increasing the attack surface and exploitation opportunities. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-134 as "Use of Externally-Controlled Format String" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-5262 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized access to network resources. Successful exploitation allows remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution privileges on the affected system, potentially leading to full control over the Battlefront Dropteam server or client applications. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access or local privileges to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments. Additionally, the format string vulnerabilities can be used for information disclosure attacks that reveal memory contents, potentially exposing sensitive data such as stack addresses, encryption keys, or other confidential information. The impact is further amplified by the fact that these fields are typically used during authentication processes, meaning successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to protected network resources and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5262 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities. The most effective immediate solution involves patching the affected software to version 1.3.4 or later, where the format string vulnerabilities have been properly addressed through input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement strict input validation mechanisms that reject or sanitize format specifiers from user-supplied data before processing. The implementation of proper string formatting functions such as snprintf instead of sprintf, combined with comprehensive input sanitization, can prevent exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure to the affected service, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect anomalous packet structures containing format specifiers. Security awareness training for developers should emphasize secure coding practices, particularly around format string handling and input validation. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and code reviews to identify similar issues in legacy systems, with the remediation process following industry standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks for vulnerability management and mitigation.