CVE-2011-1704 in iPrint
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in nipplib.dll in Novell iPrint Client before 5.64 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted core-package parameter in a printer-url.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1704 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in the nipplib.dll library component of Novell iPrint Client versions prior to 5.64. This flaw exists within the handling of printer URLs and specifically targets the core-package parameter which is processed during the parsing of network printer configurations. The vulnerability resides in the client-side application that manages communication with Novell iPrint servers, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through network-based attacks without requiring local system access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the nipplib.dll library where the core-package parameter from printer URLs is processed without adequate bounds checking. When a maliciously crafted printer URL containing an oversized core-package parameter is processed by the vulnerable iPrint client, the application fails to properly validate the input length before copying it into a fixed-size heap buffer. This classic buffer overflow condition allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting program execution flow and enabling arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a heap-based buffer overflow, which specifically addresses memory corruption issues occurring in heap-allocated memory regions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass a wide range of potential security implications within enterprise environments. Organizations utilizing Novell iPrint Client across their network infrastructure face significant risk as attackers can exploit this vulnerability through various attack vectors including malicious web pages, email attachments containing printer URLs, or compromised network services that return printer configuration data. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to target systems or local network privileges to leverage this vulnerability, making it particularly attractive for widespread exploitation campaigns. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1203 category for Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries use vulnerabilities to execute code on target systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1704 primarily focus on immediate patch deployment and network-level controls to prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should prioritize updating all instances of Novell iPrint Client to version 5.64 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to address the buffer overflow condition in nipplib.dll. Network administrators should implement strict controls on printer URL handling and consider blocking or filtering printer URLs from untrusted sources. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should include detection of malformed printer URL patterns and unusual network traffic patterns related to iPrint client communications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in client-side applications, reinforcing industry standards that emphasize defensive programming techniques to prevent buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized iPrint client components and establish regular vulnerability assessment procedures to identify similar issues in legacy software components.