CVE-2008-0973 in Double-Take
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Double-Take (aka HP StorageWorks Storage Mirroring) 4.5.0.1629, and other 4.5.0.x versions, allows remote attackers to have an unknown impact via a packet with a long string in the username field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0973 affects Double-Take software, formerly known as HP StorageWorks Storage Mirroring, specifically versions 4.5.0.1629 and other 4.5.0.x releases. This represents a critical buffer overflow flaw that exists within the software's handling of authentication packets. The vulnerability manifests when the system processes a specially crafted packet containing an excessively long string in the username field, creating a condition where memory boundaries are exceeded during data processing. Such buffer overflow conditions typically occur when programs fail to properly validate or limit the length of input data before copying it into fixed-length memory buffers, leading to potential memory corruption and arbitrary code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the realm of CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and potentially CWE-122 for heap-based buffer overflows, depending on the specific implementation details of how the username field is processed. The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as buffer overflows of this nature can enable remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where the software operates. The unknown impact designation suggests that the specific consequences of successful exploitation may vary depending on the system configuration and the attacker's objectives.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations relying on Double-Take for storage mirroring and backup operations. The software's role in critical data protection and replication functions means that exploitation could lead to data loss, unauthorized access to backup systems, or complete disruption of business continuity processes. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to storage systems, potentially compromising entire data centers or backup infrastructures. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects a widely deployed storage management solution, making it a prime target for malicious actors seeking to exploit enterprise storage environments.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2008-0973 should prioritize immediate patching of all affected Double-Take installations, as the vulnerability has been known for over a decade and multiple security updates have been available. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to systems running Double-Take, particularly in environments where the software is exposed to untrusted networks. Monitoring network traffic for packets containing unusually long username fields can serve as an early detection mechanism, though this approach may generate false positives during normal operations. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the application layer can provide defense-in-depth measures, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for input validation and T1210 for exploitation of remote services. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs to identify and remediate similar issues in legacy storage management software that may continue to operate in enterprise environments despite their age.