CVE-2011-0404 in NetSupport Manager Agent
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in NetSupport Manager Agent for Linux 11.00, for Solaris 9.50, and for Mac OS X 11.00 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long control hostname to TCP port 5405, probably a different vulnerability than CVE-2007-5252.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0404 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting NetSupport Manager Agent versions across multiple operating systems including Linux 11.00, Solaris 9.50, and Mac OS X 11.00. This flaw resides within the network communication handling mechanism of the agent software, specifically when processing control hostname data sent to TCP port 5405. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking within the application's memory management routines, creating an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the agent's failure to properly validate the length of hostname data received through network connections on port 5405. When a maliciously crafted hostname exceeding the allocated buffer space is transmitted, the excess data overflows into adjacent stack memory regions, potentially corrupting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that has been consistently documented in cybersecurity literature as one of the most prevalent attack vectors in software exploitation. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can trigger the overflow without requiring local system access, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a complete compromise of system integrity and confidentiality. Successful exploitation allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the NetSupport Manager Agent process, which typically runs with elevated permissions to facilitate remote system administration. This capability enables attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, install backdoors, or exfiltrate sensitive information from compromised systems. The vulnerability's presence in multiple operating systems including Unix-based platforms like Solaris and Mac OS X, as well as Linux environments, creates a broad attack surface that could affect enterprise networks relying on remote desktop management solutions. The fact that this vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2007-5252 indicates that it represents a separate code path or implementation flaw, suggesting that the software vendors may have addressed one vulnerability while leaving others unpatched.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of affected NetSupport Manager Agent installations, which would address the underlying buffer overflow condition through proper input validation and memory bounds checking. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to TCP port 5405, limiting exposure to unauthorized users and reducing the attack surface. Additionally, implementing network monitoring and intrusion detection systems can help identify suspicious hostname data patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary remote management features when not actively required, following the principle of least privilege. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would place it within the T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1078 Valid Accounts tactics, as exploitation requires legitimate network access and can lead to persistent system compromise. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other network management tools and remote access solutions that may be susceptible to similar buffer overflow conditions.