CVE-2008-1491 in Remote Console
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the DPC Proxy server (DpcProxy.exe) in ASUS Remote Console (aka ARC or ASMB3) 2.0.0.19 and 2.0.0.24 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string to TCP port 623.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1491 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the DPC Proxy server component of ASUS Remote Console software versions 2.0.0.19 and 2.0.0.24. This vulnerability specifically affects the ASMB3 remote management solution that ASUS provides for their hardware products. The flaw manifests when the DpcProxy.exe process receives a malformed input string through TCP port 623, which is the standard port used for IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface) communications. The vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. This particular implementation flaw demonstrates a classic security weakness in input validation mechanisms within network services that handle untrusted data from remote sources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution capabilities, as it provides attackers with a pathway to completely compromise systems running affected ASUS Remote Console software. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted long string to TCP port 623, which triggers the buffer overflow condition in the DpcProxy.exe process. The stack-based nature of the overflow means that the attacker can potentially overwrite return addresses, function pointers, and other critical stack variables, enabling them to redirect program execution flow. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the network level and does not require authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes exploitation of remote services, and T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage for execution purposes.
The security implications of this vulnerability are severe given that ASUS Remote Console software is commonly deployed in enterprise and data center environments where remote system management is critical. The affected systems typically operate in environments where security controls are already in place, but the presence of such a vulnerability can undermine the entire security posture. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate memory management within the DpcProxy.exe application, which processes remote management requests from network clients. The attack scenario involves a remote unauthenticated attacker who can simply connect to the exposed TCP port 623 and send malicious data to trigger the buffer overflow. This type of vulnerability is classified as a persistent threat because it allows attackers to maintain long-term access to compromised systems. The exploitation of this vulnerability can result in complete system compromise, enabling attackers to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as a high-priority remediation target, especially in environments where remote management capabilities are exposed to untrusted networks or the internet. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs that can identify and remediate such issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors.