CVE-2011-1710 in XTier framework
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple integer overflows in the HTTP server in the Novell XTier framework 3.1.8 allow remote attackers to cause a denial of service (service crash) or possibly execute arbitrary code via crafted header length variables.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1710 represents a critical security flaw within the Novell XTier framework version 3.1.8 HTTP server implementation. This issue stems from multiple integer overflow conditions that occur when processing HTTP header length variables, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the system through carefully crafted malicious input. The vulnerability affects the core HTTP server functionality of the XTier framework, which is designed to provide web services and application hosting capabilities for enterprise environments. Integer overflows in network protocol handling represent a well-documented class of vulnerabilities that can lead to unpredictable system behavior and potentially arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the HTTP server processes malformed header length values that cause integer overflow conditions in the underlying code. When these overflow conditions are triggered, they can result in memory corruption that manifests as service crashes or potentially allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The integer overflow occurs specifically in the handling of header length variables, where the server fails to properly validate or sanitize input values before performing arithmetic operations that could exceed the maximum representable value for the integer data type. This class of vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow and underflow conditions, and represents a fundamental flaw in input validation and memory management within the HTTP server component.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-1710 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the potential for arbitrary code execution creates significant risk for enterprise environments relying on Novell XTier framework deployments. Organizations using this framework may experience service interruptions that affect business operations, while the arbitrary code execution capability could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems, escalate privileges, or establish persistent access points within network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects systems that process HTTP requests through the XTier framework, making it particularly dangerous for web applications, content management systems, and other services that depend on this framework for hosting and delivery functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1710 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems with the vendor-provided security updates, as the vulnerability represents a high-severity threat that can be exploited remotely without authentication. Network administrators should implement perimeter controls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts, while also conducting comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected XTier framework versions. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patches in controlled environments before deployment to production systems, ensuring that the security updates do not introduce compatibility issues with existing applications. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable systems, while maintaining detailed monitoring of system logs for signs of exploitation attempts or unauthorized access activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and robust error handling in network protocol implementations, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1203 for legitimate credentials and T1499 for network denial of service attacks that could be facilitated through such vulnerabilities.