CVE-2008-5868 in IntelliTamper
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in IntelliTamper 2.07 and 2.08 allows user-assisted attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long ProxyLogin value in a configuration (.cfg) file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5868 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in IntelliTamper version 2.07 and 2.08 software applications. This vulnerability resides within the configuration file processing mechanism where the application fails to properly validate input length when handling ProxyLogin parameters. The flaw manifests when a maliciously crafted configuration file containing an excessively long ProxyLogin value is processed by the vulnerable software, creating conditions that allow attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is a well-documented weakness in software development practices that occurs when data is written beyond the bounds of a fixed-length buffer allocated on the stack. This particular vulnerability operates under the principle that insufficient input validation creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate program execution flow by overwriting return addresses and function pointers stored in the stack memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized access. When exploited, the buffer overflow allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code within the context of the IntelliTamper process, potentially enabling privilege escalation if the application runs with elevated permissions. The user-assisted nature of this attack means that exploitation requires social engineering or other means to convince a victim to load the malicious configuration file, but once executed, the consequences can be severe. The attack vector operates through configuration file manipulation, which is a common attack surface in software applications that rely heavily on external configuration inputs. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell and T1566.001 Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers can leverage the configuration file as a delivery mechanism for malicious payloads. The vulnerability also relates to T1068 Remote Code Execution, as successful exploitation results in arbitrary code execution capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5868 should prioritize immediate software updates and patches from the vendor, as the vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent versions of IntelliTamper. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures that enforce maximum length restrictions on ProxyLogin parameters within configuration files, ensuring that all external inputs are properly sanitized before processing. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of systems running vulnerable versions of IntelliTamper, particularly in environments where configuration file manipulation might occur. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual configuration file modifications and process behavior that could indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of untrusted configuration files and establish robust backup procedures to recover from potential compromise scenarios. The vulnerability highlights the importance of defensive programming practices including bounds checking, input validation, and secure coding methodologies to prevent similar issues in future software development cycles, particularly in applications that process external configuration inputs.