CVE-2011-3575 in Lotus Domino
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the NSFComputeEvaluateExt function in Nnotes.dll in IBM Lotus Domino 8.5.2 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via a long tHPRAgentName parameter in an fmHttpPostRequest OpenForm action to WebAdmin.nsf.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/06/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2011-3575 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting IBM Lotus Domino version 8.5.2, specifically within the Nnotes.dll library. This flaw exists in the NSFComputeEvaluateExt function and manifests when processing a specially crafted fmHttpPostRequest OpenForm action directed at the WebAdmin.nsf database. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authenticated access, making it exploitable by users who have legitimate credentials within the Domino environment. The attack vector involves passing an excessively long tHPRAgentName parameter, which triggers the buffer overflow condition in the application's memory management.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which occurs when a program writes data beyond the bounds of a fixed-length stack buffer. The flaw is particularly severe because it allows for arbitrary code execution, enabling attackers to gain complete control over the affected Domino server. The buffer overflow occurs during the processing of HTTP POST requests within the WebAdmin.nsf database, where the application fails to properly validate the length of the tHPRAgentName parameter before copying it into a fixed-size stack buffer. This validation failure creates a predictable memory corruption scenario that can be exploited through carefully crafted input parameters.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the Domino server infrastructure. Once exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the Domino server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The remote authenticated nature of the exploit means that attackers can leverage legitimate user accounts to gain unauthorized access to the system, making detection more challenging. Organizations running IBM Lotus Domino 8.5.2 are particularly at risk since this vulnerability can be exploited from outside the network perimeter if attackers can obtain valid credentials, though the authentication requirement limits the scope compared to fully remote exploits.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patch application from IBM, as the vendor released security updates specifically addressing this flaw. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to Domino servers and restrict the number of legitimate users with administrative privileges. The principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that only necessary personnel have access to the WebAdmin.nsf database and related administrative functions. Additionally, implementing network monitoring and intrusion detection systems can help identify suspicious fmHttpPostRequest patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities in other components of their Domino infrastructure, as this type of flaw often indicates broader memory management issues that may affect other functions within the application.