CVE-2008-1809 in eDirectory
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in Novell eDirectory 8.7.3 before 8.7.3.10b, and 8.8 before 8.8.2 FTF2, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via an LDAP search request containing "NULL search parameters."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1809 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in Novell eDirectory software versions 8.7.3 and earlier, as well as 8.8 and earlier, specifically affecting versions prior to 8.7.3.10b and 8.8.2 FTF2. This flaw exists within the Lightweight Directory Access Protocol implementation that processes LDAP search requests containing NULL search parameters, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on Novell eDirectory for directory services. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the LDAP processing subsystem.
The technical flaw manifests when the eDirectory server receives an LDAP search request with NULL search parameters, which causes the application to improperly handle memory allocation for buffer storage. During the processing of these malformed requests, the software attempts to write data beyond the allocated heap memory boundaries, leading to a buffer overflow condition. This memory corruption can be exploited by remote attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the eDirectory service account. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication and can be triggered through standard LDAP operations, making it accessible to any remote attacker with network connectivity to the affected server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive directory information. Organizations using affected Novell eDirectory versions face potential data breaches, service disruption, and lateral movement opportunities for attackers who gain initial access through this vulnerability. The attack vector is particularly concerning because LDAP search operations are fundamental to directory service functionality, meaning that even legitimate users could inadvertently trigger the vulnerability during normal operations. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Heap-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in heap memory regions, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage in exploitation scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1809 require immediate patching of affected systems to the recommended versions 8.7.3.10b or 8.8.2 FTF2, which contain the necessary memory management fixes. Network administrators should implement firewall rules to restrict LDAP traffic to trusted sources only, while also monitoring for unusual LDAP search patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing intrusion detection systems with signature-based detection for known exploit patterns related to this vulnerability. The patching process must be carefully coordinated to ensure minimal disruption to directory services, as eDirectory is often critical for authentication and authorization across enterprise networks. Security teams should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any systems running unsupported versions that may be at risk, as this vulnerability has remained relevant in various penetration testing scenarios due to its persistence in legacy deployments.