CVE-2011-10014 in GTA San Andreas Multiplayer Server
Summary
by MITRE • 08/14/2025
GTA San Andreas Multiplayer (SA-MP) server version 0.3.1.1 is vulnerable to a stack-based buffer overflow triggered by parsing a malformed server.cfg configuration file. The vulnerability allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code when the server binary (samp-server.exe) processes a crafted echo directive containing excessive input. The original 'sa-mp.com' site is defunct, but the community maintains mirrors and forks that may be vulnerable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-10014 affects GTA San Andreas Multiplayer server software version 0.3.1.1, representing a critical stack-based buffer overflow condition that stems from improper input validation during configuration file processing. This flaw specifically manifests when the samp-server.exe binary encounters a malformed server.cfg file containing an excessive echo directive, creating an exploitable condition that enables arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack, potentially leading to program termination or code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the server's parsing routine for the echo directive within configuration files, where input validation fails to properly constrain the length of data being processed. When an attacker crafts a malicious server.cfg file with an oversized echo command, the server's buffer handling mechanism cannot accommodate the excessive input, causing stack corruption that may be leveraged to redirect program execution flow. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised server system. The local privilege requirement indicates that attackers must already have access to the system to exploit this vulnerability, though the code execution capability provides a significant escalation path.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as successful exploitation enables full system compromise of the affected server instance. Attackers could gain persistent access to game server infrastructure, potentially using it for further attacks against other network resources or to establish command and control capabilities. The widespread distribution of SA-MP through community mirrors and forks means that numerous server installations could be vulnerable, creating a substantial attack surface across gaming networks. The defunct nature of the original distribution site does not diminish the risk, as community-maintained versions may not have received security updates or patches, leaving legacy installations exposed to this known vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-10014 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems, though the age of this vulnerability suggests that official patches may no longer be available. Organizations should implement strict configuration file validation policies, rejecting any configuration files that exceed predefined size limits or contain suspicious directives. Network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact of exploitation by restricting local access to server binaries. Additionally, implementing monitoring solutions that detect unusual process behavior or unauthorized configuration file modifications can provide early warning of attempted exploitation. Regular security assessments of gaming server infrastructure, including vulnerability scanning and penetration testing, should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in legacy systems that may have been overlooked in security audits.