CVE-2007-6531 in xfce
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the Panel (xfce4-panel) component in Xfce before 4.4.2 might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via Launcher tooltips. NOTE: a second buffer overflow (over-read) in the xfce_mkdirhier function was also reported, but it might not be exploitable for a crash or code execution, so it is not a vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2021
The CVE-2007-6531 vulnerability represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting the xfce4-panel component within the Xfce desktop environment. This flaw specifically targets the Panel component and exists in Xfce versions prior to 4.4.2, creating a significant security risk for systems utilizing this desktop environment. The vulnerability manifests when processing Launcher tooltips, providing remote attackers with a potential pathway for arbitrary code execution. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the panel's tooltip handling mechanism, where attacker-controlled data can overflow the allocated stack buffer and overwrite adjacent memory regions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves crafting malicious tooltip content that exceeds the allocated buffer size, causing a stack overflow condition. When the xfce4-panel processes these oversized tooltip strings, the overflow corrupts the stack frame, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite return addresses and function pointers. This memory corruption can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow and execute malicious code with the privileges of the running panel process. The vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a common weakness in software security practices. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it allows remote code execution through tooltip manipulation, which can occur when users interact with malicious applications or web content that generates such tooltips.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-6531 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain arbitrary code execution within the context of the Xfce panel process, potentially escalating privileges to the user level or even higher depending on system configuration. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not need physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as it provides a mechanism for executing arbitrary commands and potentially elevating privileges through the compromised panel process. The vulnerability also demonstrates the broader risk of desktop environment components being targeted for exploitation, as these applications often run with elevated privileges and have extensive system integration capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6531 primarily involve upgrading to Xfce version 4.4.2 or later, where the buffer overflow has been patched. System administrators should prioritize this update across all affected systems, particularly in enterprise environments where Xfce is deployed. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities by restricting access to systems running vulnerable versions. Input validation should be strengthened at the application level, and developers should ensure proper bounds checking when handling user-provided data. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and keeping desktop environments updated, as the second reported buffer overflow in the xfce_mkdirhier function, while potentially non-exploitable, demonstrates that multiple weaknesses may exist within the same software component. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual process behavior and memory corruption patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and incident response procedures should be established to address potential compromise scenarios.