CVE-2008-6444 in Baidu
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in CSTransfer.dll in Baidu Hi IM might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted packet, probably related to an improper length value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/24/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6444 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the CSTransfer.dll component of Baidu Hi Instant Messaging software. This flaw exists in the handling of network packets and specifically involves an improper length value that triggers memory corruption. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the messaging protocol implementation, where the application fails to properly verify the length parameter of incoming data packets before processing them. Such deficiencies create exploitable conditions where malicious actors can craft specially formatted packets that exceed the allocated buffer space on the stack. The stack-based nature of this overflow means that the attacker can overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected process. This vulnerability affects versions of Baidu Hi that implement the CSTransfer.dll library for handling file transfers and other communication protocols between users. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it operates over network connections, enabling remote exploitation without requiring local access to the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The improper length value mentioned in the description indicates that the vulnerability exploits a classic buffer overrun condition where the application reads a length field from an incoming packet and uses it to determine how much data to copy into a fixed-size buffer. This pattern creates a direct path for attackers to manipulate program execution flow through return address corruption. The vulnerability operates at the application layer of the network stack, making it susceptible to exploitation through network-based attacks that do not require physical access or user interaction. From an operational perspective, this flaw presents a significant risk to enterprise environments where Baidu Hi may be deployed, as it could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems or escalate privileges within the messaging environment. The vulnerability's remote exploitability makes it particularly dangerous in environments where network traffic is not properly filtered or where users may receive messages from untrusted sources.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data breach scenarios. Attackers exploiting this flaw could execute malicious payloads that establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or extract sensitive information from the compromised system. The nature of instant messaging applications makes them attractive targets for attackers seeking to leverage these vulnerabilities for broader network infiltration or as part of multi-stage attack campaigns. Organizations using Baidu Hi in enterprise environments face particular risk as the application may be used for internal communications and file sharing, potentially providing attackers with access to sensitive corporate data. This vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in network protocol implementations, as similar patterns may exist in other applications that handle user-supplied data without adequate sanitization. The lack of proper error handling and memory management in the CSTransfer.dll component creates an exploitable condition that violates fundamental security principles outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks including the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001 standards for secure application development. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as successful exploitation would enable arbitrary code execution, and potentially T1078 for valid accounts if the compromised application has elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6444 should focus on immediate patching of the affected Baidu Hi software versions, as the vendor would have released a security update addressing the buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the affected application and limit potential attack vectors. Input validation should be enhanced at all network protocol layers to prevent malformed packets from reaching vulnerable components, implementing proper bounds checking and length verification mechanisms. System administrators should monitor network traffic for suspicious patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual packet sizes or malformed data transfers. Regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other messaging applications or network protocols. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper memory management in application development, particularly for network-facing services that handle user-supplied data. Organizations should also consider implementing network intrusion detection systems to identify and block potentially malicious traffic patterns associated with buffer overflow exploitation attempts. Additionally, application whitelisting and privilege separation measures can help limit the impact of successful exploitation attempts, ensuring that even if an attacker gains code execution, they cannot easily escalate privileges or access sensitive system resources.