CVE-2013-0130 in Coreftp
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in Core FTP before 2.2 build 1769 allow remote FTP servers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (application crash) via a long directory name in a (1) DELE, (2) LIST, or (3) VIEW command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0130 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting Core FTP client versions prior to build 2.2.1769. This vulnerability exposes the application to remote code execution and denial of service attacks through maliciously crafted directory names sent by remote FTP servers during standard file operations. The flaw specifically manifests when the client processes directory listings or file deletion commands, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled input can overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the client-server communication model of FTP protocols, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through legitimate network interactions without requiring special privileges or authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and buffer management within Core FTP's handling of directory names during FTP command processing. When the client receives a DELE, LIST, or VIEW command response containing an excessively long directory name, the application fails to properly bounds-check the input data before copying it into fixed-size memory buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition allows an attacker to overwrite critical memory segments including return addresses, function pointers, and other control data structures. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows memory to be overwritten beyond allocated buffer boundaries. The attack vector operates entirely through network-based FTP server responses, making it particularly insidious as users may unknowingly trigger the exploit during routine file transfers or directory listings.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application crashes, potentially enabling full system compromise through remote code execution. When exploited successfully, an attacker can manipulate the execution flow of the Core FTP application to redirect program control to malicious code injected into the buffer overflow location. This capability allows for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running the FTP client, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or persistent backdoor installation. The denial of service aspect of this vulnerability can be equally disruptive, causing application crashes that interrupt legitimate file transfer operations and potentially affecting business continuity. The vulnerability affects all users of Core FTP client versions prior to the patched build, making it a widespread concern across organizations relying on this FTP client for file management operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-0130 primarily focus on immediate software updates and operational security measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to Core FTP build 2.2.1769 or later, which includes proper input validation and buffer management fixes. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and firewall rules to limit FTP server access to trusted sources, reducing the attack surface. Additionally, security awareness training for users can help prevent accidental exploitation through social engineering attacks that might trick users into connecting to malicious FTP servers. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1203, which covers exploitation for execution through the use of buffer overflow techniques, and T1499, covering network denial of service attacks. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual FTP command patterns and long directory name sequences that could indicate exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of untrusted FTP clients and regularly audit FTP client configurations to ensure secure default settings are maintained throughout the organization's infrastructure.