CVE-2010-1465 in FTP
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Trellian FTP client 3.01, including 3.1.3.1789, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long PASV response.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1465 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Trellian FTP client version 3.01 and its subsequent iterations including 3.1.3.1789. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the client's implementation of the File Transfer Protocol's Passive mode command handling. The flaw specifically manifests when the client receives a maliciously crafted PASV response from a compromised FTP server, which contains an excessively long response string that exceeds the allocated buffer space on the stack. Such buffer overflow conditions create opportunities for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations and potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as a fundamental software flaw that occurs when a program writes more data to a fixed-length buffer than it can hold. This particular implementation vulnerability exposes the application to remote code execution attacks, as attackers can leverage the overflow to inject and subsequently execute malicious code within the context of the targeted system. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond establishing an FTP connection, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass complete system compromise potential. When successfully exploited, the buffer overflow allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized control over the affected system, potentially leading to data theft, system modification, or further network infiltration activities. The Trellian FTP client's widespread deployment in enterprise environments amplifies the severity of this vulnerability, as it could serve as a gateway for attackers to establish persistent access within organizational networks. The flaw's exploitation requires a malicious FTP server to send a specially crafted PASV response, which means that attackers need to either compromise an FTP server or position themselves in a man-in-the-middle attack scenario to deliver the malicious payload. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as the successful exploitation would likely involve executing code through the compromised client application. The attack could be automated and does not require sophisticated technical skills, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that do not maintain up-to-date security patches.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1465 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Trellian FTP client installations, as the vendor has likely released security updates to address this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement network-level controls to monitor and restrict FTP traffic, particularly when establishing connections to untrusted FTP servers, as this can help prevent exploitation attempts. The implementation of network segmentation and firewall rules that limit FTP server access can reduce the attack surface and prevent unauthorized FTP connections from reaching vulnerable client systems. Security teams should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious PASV response patterns that may indicate attempted exploitation. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of connecting to untrusted FTP servers and the importance of keeping software updated remains crucial in defending against this class of vulnerability. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in network protocol implementations, as the lack of such safeguards allowed the attacker to manipulate memory layout and achieve code execution. Organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected applications that may share similar buffer handling implementations, ensuring comprehensive protection against related security flaws. The incident underscores the necessity of regular security updates and the importance of maintaining current software versions to protect against known vulnerabilities that could be exploited by threat actors.