CVE-2009-4230 in IIPImage Server
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in src/Task.cc in the FastCGI program in IIPImage Server before 0.9.8 might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors associated with crafted arguments to the (1) RGN::run, (2) JTLS::run, or (3) SHD::run function. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4230 represents a critical security flaw in the IIPImage Server FastCGI implementation that affects versions prior to 0.9.8. This issue manifests as multiple stack-based buffer overflows within the Task.cc source file, creating a pathway for remote code execution through carefully crafted input parameters. The vulnerability specifically targets three distinct functions within the server's processing pipeline: RGN::run, JTLS::run, and SHD::run, each of which handles different types of image processing operations. These functions process user-supplied arguments without adequate input validation or bounds checking, creating exploitable conditions that can be leveraged by remote attackers to overwrite stack memory.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through stack-based buffer overflow conditions that arise when the FastCGI program processes malformed input arguments passed to the targeted functions. When these functions receive input that exceeds the allocated buffer space, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially overwriting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data. This memory corruption allows attackers to manipulate the program's execution flow and inject malicious code that can be executed with the privileges of the running service. The vulnerability's classification as stack-based indicates that the overflow specifically affects the program's stack memory segment where local variables and function call information are stored, making it particularly dangerous as it can directly compromise the program's control flow integrity.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-4230 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise when the vulnerable IIPImage Server is deployed in production environments. The vulnerability affects image serving applications that rely on FastCGI for processing requests, making it particularly concerning for web applications that handle user-uploaded images or perform complex image processing operations. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to the server, potentially escalating privileges to the level of the web server process, and subsequently access sensitive data or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur without requiring physical access to the system, making it a significant threat to organizations relying on vulnerable image processing services.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate remediation through version updates to IIPImage Server 0.9.8 or later, which contain patches addressing the buffer overflow conditions in the affected functions. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable services to untrusted networks, while also deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow classification and corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised system. Additionally, implementing input validation controls and using modern programming practices such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and compiler-based buffer overflow protections can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against similar vulnerabilities in the future.