CVE-2008-1105 in Samba
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the receive_smb_raw function in util/sock.c in Samba 3.0.0 through 3.0.29 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted SMB response.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-1105 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting Samba versions 3.0.0 through 3.0.29. This flaw exists within the receive_smb_raw function located in the util/sock.c source file, which processes incoming SMB (Server Message Block) network traffic. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and bounds checking when handling SMB protocol responses, creating a condition where maliciously crafted SMB packets can trigger memory corruption. The heap-based nature of this overflow indicates that the vulnerable code manipulates dynamically allocated memory regions, making the exploitation potential more severe as attackers can manipulate heap metadata and potentially overwrite critical program structures. This vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Heap-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security. The Common Vulnerability Scoring System assigns this vulnerability a high severity rating due to its remote exploitability and potential for arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the processing of SMB protocol responses where the receive_smb_raw function fails to properly validate the length of incoming data before copying it into heap-allocated buffers. When a remote attacker sends a specially crafted SMB response packet with oversized data fields, the function proceeds to copy this data without adequate bounds checking, causing the heap memory to overflow. This overflow can overwrite adjacent memory regions including return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures. The exploitation mechanism typically involves crafting an SMB packet that, when processed by the vulnerable Samba server, triggers the buffer overflow condition. This allows attackers to overwrite the program's execution flow and inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the Samba service account, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands on the target system.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-1105 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass full system compromise and network infiltration. Since Samba serves as a critical file sharing and authentication service in many enterprise environments, exploitation of this vulnerability can provide attackers with unauthorized access to shared resources, user credentials, and sensitive data. The remote nature of the attack means that systems can be compromised without requiring physical access or local network presence, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed Samba servers. The vulnerability affects systems running Samba versions within the specified range, which were widely deployed across various operating systems including Linux distributions, Unix systems, and Windows environments that utilized Samba for file sharing. Organizations with network infrastructure relying on SMB services for file sharing, printer services, or authentication mechanisms face significant risk exposure. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that Samba servers often run with elevated privileges, and successful exploitation can result in attackers gaining access to the underlying file system, potentially enabling lateral movement throughout the network. Additionally, the heap overflow can lead to denial of service conditions, making the vulnerability particularly attractive to attackers seeking to disrupt services or establish persistent access to target systems. The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts, as compromised systems may provide attackers with legitimate network credentials and access rights.