CVE-2013-2154 in XML Security for C++
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the XML Signature Reference functionality (xsec/dsig/DSIGReference.cpp) in Apache Santuario XML Security for C++ (aka xml-security-c) before 1.7.1 allows context-dependent attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via malformed XPointer expressions, probably related to the DSIGReference::getURIBaseTXFM function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/04/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2154 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within Apache Santuario XML Security for C++ library, specifically affecting the XML Signature Reference functionality. This flaw exists in the DSIGReference.cpp file and impacts versions prior to 1.7.1, making it a significant concern for systems relying on XML signature validation. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of malformed XPointer expressions within the XML signature processing pipeline, creating a potential attack vector that could be exploited by context-dependent adversaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the DSIGReference::getURIBaseTXFM function where insufficient input validation leads to stack memory corruption. When processing malformed XPointer expressions, the library fails to properly bounds-check array accesses or validate string lengths, resulting in memory corruption that can manifest as either a denial of service condition or arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability is categorized as CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which represents a classic and dangerous class of memory corruption flaws that have been consistently exploited in various security contexts. The attack requires an attacker to craft specifically malformed XML documents containing invalid XPointer references that trigger the vulnerable code path during signature validation operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system crashes, as it provides potential for remote code execution in certain scenarios, making it particularly dangerous for web applications and services that process untrusted XML content. Systems utilizing Apache Santuario for validating XML signatures, including those in financial services, government applications, and enterprise security frameworks, face significant risk exposure. The context-dependent nature of the attack means that exploitation requires the target system to process specially crafted XML documents containing malformed XPointer expressions, typically during XML signature validation operations. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of XML-based security mechanisms, potentially allowing attackers to bypass security controls or compromise system integrity. The flaw demonstrates how XML processing libraries can become attack surfaces when proper input sanitization and memory management practices are not implemented.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-2154 require immediate patching of affected Apache Santuario installations to version 1.7.1 or later, which contains the necessary code modifications to properly validate XPointer expressions and prevent stack buffer overflows. Organizations should also implement input validation measures at the application level, including XML schema validation and strict content filtering for XML signature processing. Network-level protections such as XML firewalls or web application firewalls can provide additional defense in depth by filtering malformed XML content before it reaches vulnerable applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security libraries and implementing proper memory safety practices in security-critical components. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving buffer overflow exploitation and privilege escalation, making it relevant to the adversary tactics of execution and privilege escalation within enterprise security environments. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for outdated XML security libraries to prevent exploitation of similar memory corruption vulnerabilities in the broader ecosystem.