CVE-2008-7249 in Sarg
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Squid Analysis Report Generator (Sarg) 2.2.3.1, and probably later, allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long HTTP request method in a crafted access.log file, a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-1167.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-7249 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Squid Analysis Report Generator Sarg version 2.2.3.1 and potentially subsequent releases. This issue arises from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's processing of HTTP request methods contained in crafted access.log files. The vulnerability operates through a user-assisted remote attack vector, meaning that an attacker must convince a victim to process a specially crafted log file for the exploit to be effective. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Buffer Overflow, specifically representing a stack-based buffer overflow that can potentially lead to arbitrary code execution. The attack requires the target system to process a maliciously formatted access.log file containing an excessively long HTTP request method that exceeds the allocated buffer space.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when Sarg processes log files containing HTTP request methods that exceed the predefined buffer size limits. During the parsing operation, the application fails to properly validate the length of the HTTP method string before copying it into a fixed-size buffer. This allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the program's execution flow. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it leverages the legitimate log processing functionality of Sarg, making it difficult to distinguish between normal and malicious input at runtime. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability under the MITRE ATT&CK framework's T1059.007 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically through the manipulation of application input streams. The buffer overflow occurs in the context of the Sarg application itself, which typically runs with privileges sufficient to execute arbitrary code on the target system.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-7249 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to gain full control over systems running vulnerable versions of Sarg. This vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Sarg for web server log analysis and reporting, particularly those in environments where log file processing is automated or where users have the ability to upload or modify log files. The user-assisted nature of the attack means that social engineering may be required to convince targets to process the malicious log file, but once executed, the consequences can be severe. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of input sanitization in log processing applications, as it highlights how seemingly benign data processing can become a security risk when proper boundary checking is not implemented. Organizations utilizing Sarg for log analysis should be particularly concerned about this vulnerability, as it directly impacts the security of their web server monitoring infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-7249 should focus on immediate patching of the vulnerable Sarg version, as well as implementing defensive measures to prevent unauthorized log file modifications. System administrators should upgrade to patched versions of Sarg where available, or implement input validation measures that limit the length of HTTP request methods processed by the application. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of exploitation, ensuring that only authorized personnel can modify log files or execute Sarg processes. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of regular security assessments of log processing tools, as these applications often operate with elevated privileges and can become attractive targets for attackers seeking to establish persistent access to network infrastructure. Organizations should also implement monitoring for unusual log file processing activities and consider implementing automated log file integrity checks to detect potential tampering. The mitigation approach aligns with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 frameworks, particularly focusing on input validation controls and privileged access management.