CVE-2008-1136 in SynCE
Summary
by MITRE
The Utils::runScripts function in src/utils.cpp in vdccm 0.92 through 0.10.0 in SynCE (SynCE-dccm) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in a certain string to TCP port 5679.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1136 resides within the SynCEdccm software suite, specifically affecting versions 0.92 through 0.10.0. This issue manifests in the Utils::runScripts function located in the src/utils.cpp file, creating a critical security flaw that enables remote command execution through carefully crafted input. The vulnerability operates by accepting user-supplied strings through TCP port 5679, which are then processed without adequate sanitization or validation, allowing malicious actors to inject shell metacharacters that get interpreted by the underlying shell.
This represents a classic command injection vulnerability that falls under CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The flaw stems from the software's failure to properly sanitize input parameters before executing system commands, creating an attack surface where remote adversaries can manipulate the execution flow of the application. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates over a network port, eliminating the need for local access and enabling exploitation from remote locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it grants attackers complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, an attacker can execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the running process, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or establishment of persistent backdoors. The attack vector through TCP port 5679 suggests this vulnerability could be exploited in environments where the SynCEdccm service is exposed to untrusted networks, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise or IoT deployments where such services might be inadvertently exposed.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which covers command and scripting interpreter execution. The attack chain typically involves an initial reconnaissance phase to identify the vulnerable service, followed by crafting malicious payloads containing shell metacharacters that bypass input validation. Mitigation strategies should focus on input sanitization, implementing proper parameter validation, and restricting network access to the affected port. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to limit exposure of TCP port 5679 to only trusted sources, while regular security updates and patches should be deployed to address this class of vulnerabilities in similar software components.