CVE-2008-4402 in OfficeScan
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in CGI modules in the server in Trend Micro OfficeScan 8.0 SP1 before build 2439 and 8.0 SP1 Patch 1 before build 3087 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4402 represents a critical security flaw affecting Trend Micro OfficeScan versions 8.0 SP1 and earlier, specifically targeting the server component's CGI modules. This vulnerability manifests as multiple buffer overflows that occur within the web server interface, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The affected versions include OfficeScan 8.0 SP1 before build 2439 and 8.0 SP1 Patch 1 before build 3087, indicating that the flaw persisted across multiple release iterations before receiving remediation. These buffer overflow conditions typically arise when programs write more data to a fixed-length buffer than it can accommodate, resulting in memory corruption that attackers can exploit to inject and execute malicious code on the target system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the CWE-121 category of buffer overflow conditions, specifically classified as CWE-129 which addresses improper limitation of a recognized maximum length. The flaw occurs in the server's CGI modules that handle web-based administrative functions, making the attack surface particularly dangerous as it allows remote exploitation without requiring local system access. Attackers can leverage these buffer overflows through unspecified vectors that likely involve crafted HTTP requests or specific parameter inputs to the web interface. The exploitation process typically involves sending malformed data to the vulnerable CGI modules, which then overflows the allocated buffer space and potentially overwrites adjacent memory locations including return addresses, allowing for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web server process.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-4402 extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data. Organizations running affected OfficeScan versions face significant risk of unauthorized network access, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target these systems from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments. The web-based nature of the attack vector also means that traditional network perimeter defenses may not adequately protect against this specific threat, as the attack can originate from external sources directly targeting the web server interface.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4402 primarily focus on immediate patch application to the affected Trend Micro OfficeScan installations, with administrators urged to upgrade to versions that include the necessary security fixes. The vulnerability's classification as a critical remote code execution flaw necessitates urgent remediation efforts, as the window for exploitation remains open until patches are deployed. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the affected web server components, while monitoring systems should be enhanced to detect suspicious traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security professionals should also consider implementing web application firewalls to filter potentially malicious requests targeting the CGI modules. Additionally, regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other network components, as this flaw demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management in server-side applications. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of timely patch management and proper software security practices in enterprise security environments.