CVE-2011-10005 in EasyFTP
Summary
by MITRE • 01/16/2024
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in EasyFTP 1.7.0.2. Affected is an unknown function of the component MKD Command Handler. The manipulation leads to buffer overflow. It is possible to launch the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-250716.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-10005 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within EasyFTP server version 1.7.0.2, specifically within the MKD Command Handler component. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The MKD command in FTP servers is used to create directories, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it targets fundamental file system operations that are commonly used by both legitimate users and attackers.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the FTP server processes the MKD command with maliciously crafted input parameters. The buffer overflow vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and memory management within the command handler, allowing an attacker to inject excessive data into a fixed-size buffer. This condition creates a situation where adjacent memory locations including stack canaries, return addresses, or other critical program data become overwritten, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can trigger the buffer overflow without requiring local system access, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible FTP servers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it provides attackers with potential for complete system compromise. When successfully exploited, the buffer overflow could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the FTP service account, potentially leading to full system takeover. This risk is exacerbated by the fact that the exploit has been publicly disclosed, as indicated by the VDB-250716 identifier, meaning that malicious actors have access to working exploitation techniques. The vulnerability affects any system running EasyFTP 1.7.0.2 where the MKD command is enabled, making it a significant threat to organizations that have not yet patched their FTP server implementations.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their systems. The primary recommendation involves applying the vendor-provided patch or upgrading to a non-vulnerable version of EasyFTP, as this directly addresses the root cause of the buffer overflow. Additionally, network-level protections such as firewall rules that restrict FTP access to trusted networks, and the implementation of intrusion detection systems that monitor for suspicious MKD command patterns, should be deployed. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command and control communications and privilege escalation, requiring defensive measures that address both the initial exploitation vector and potential post-compromise activities. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted FTP server binaries and regularly monitor for anomalous FTP activity that might indicate exploitation attempts.