CVE-2010-4652 in ProFTPD
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the sql_prepare_where function (contrib/mod_sql.c) in ProFTPD before 1.3.3d, when mod_sql is enabled, allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a crafted username containing substitution tags, which are not properly handled during construction of an SQL query.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4652 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in the ProFTPD FTP server software affecting versions prior to 1.3.3d. This flaw exists within the sql_prepare_where function located in the contrib/mod_sql.c module, which is part of the mod_sql module responsible for database connectivity and authentication. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the mod_sql module is enabled and active within the ProFTPD configuration, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the software through carefully crafted username inputs containing substitution tags.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs during the construction of SQL queries when the software fails to properly handle substitution tags within user-provided usernames. When an attacker submits a specially crafted username containing these tags, the sql_prepare_where function processes the input without adequate bounds checking or sanitization, leading to memory corruption in the heap memory space. This improper handling of user input during SQL query construction creates a condition where the buffer overflow can occur, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations and causing unpredictable behavior in the running process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable remote code execution. While the primary effect is a crash that causes the FTP server to become unresponsive, the heap corruption nature of the vulnerability means that attackers could potentially manipulate the program flow to execute arbitrary code on the target system. This represents a significant security risk as it could allow unauthorized individuals to gain control over the FTP server, potentially leading to data breaches, privilege escalation, or further network compromise. The vulnerability affects systems where ProFTPD is configured with mod_sql enabled, making it particularly concerning for organizations relying on database-backed authentication mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4652 should prioritize immediate patching of affected ProFTPD installations to version 1.3.3d or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should also implement network-level restrictions to limit access to FTP services where possible, and consider disabling the mod_sql module if database authentication is not strictly required. Additionally, input validation mechanisms should be strengthened to sanitize all user-provided data, particularly username fields, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other software components. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of vulnerabilities in remote services, highlighting the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and implementing proper input validation controls.