CVE-2008-2927 in Adium
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple integer overflows in the msn_slplink_process_msg functions in the MSN protocol handler in (1) libpurple/protocols/msn/slplink.c and (2) libpurple/protocols/msnp9/slplink.c in Pidgin before 2.4.3 and Adium before 1.3 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a malformed SLP message with a crafted offset value, a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-2955.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/27/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-2927 represents a critical security flaw affecting the MSN protocol handler within instant messaging clients. This issue specifically targets the msn_slplink_process_msg functions located in two separate files within the Pidgin messaging client and its associated Adium counterpart. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of integer overflow conditions during the processing of SLP (Session Location Protocol) messages, which are fundamental components of the MSN messaging protocol used for establishing and managing communication sessions between users.
The technical flaw manifests through integer overflow conditions that occur when processing malformed SLP messages containing crafted offset values. When the protocol handler attempts to process these specially crafted messages, the integer overflow causes the application to behave unpredictably, potentially leading to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to exploit the flaw without requiring any local privileges or user interaction, making it a significant threat to the security of affected systems. The integer overflow specifically occurs in the handling of offset values within the SLP message processing logic, where the application fails to properly validate or constrain the size of integer values before performing arithmetic operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it enables complete remote code execution on systems running affected versions of Pidgin or Adium. Attackers can craft malicious SLP messages that, when processed by the vulnerable client, trigger the integer overflow condition and subsequently allow arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user. This presents a severe risk to enterprise environments where instant messaging clients are widely deployed, as successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability affects versions prior to 2.4.3 for Pidgin and 1.3 for Adium, representing a substantial attack surface across numerous installations of these messaging platforms.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as aligning with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and it demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for remote code execution through protocol manipulation. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow scenario where integer arithmetic operations result in memory corruption, and the exploitation requires no user interaction, making it particularly dangerous. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems, as the vulnerability allows for complete system compromise. Recommended mitigations include updating to patched versions of Pidgin and Adium, implementing network segmentation to limit exposure, and monitoring for suspicious SLP message traffic patterns. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to identify and block potentially malicious SLP messages before they reach vulnerable clients, as the attack vector involves network-based communication rather than local exploitation.