CVE-2013-3399 in Desktop Collaboration Experience
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in an unspecified Android API on the Cisco Desktop Collaboration Experience DX650 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors that leverage incorrect memory allocation, aka Bug IDs CSCuf93957, CSCug22352, and CSCug22462.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2013-3399 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within an unspecified Android API component of the Cisco Desktop Collaboration Experience DX650 device. This flaw exists in the memory allocation mechanisms of the underlying operating system, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects a collaboration device that typically operates in enterprise environments where security is paramount. The Cisco Desktop Collaboration Experience DX650 serves as a unified communication endpoint that integrates video conferencing, instant messaging, and collaboration tools, making it a valuable target for attackers seeking persistent access to corporate networks. The affected Android API implementation demonstrates poor memory management practices that allow attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations through crafted input sequences.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow occurs when the system processes input data that exceeds the allocated buffer size within the Android API framework. This incorrect memory allocation pattern creates a condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite critical memory segments including return addresses, function pointers, or other executable code structures. The vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking mechanisms within the API implementation, allowing memory corruption that can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow. According to the Cisco bug IDs CSCuf93957, CSCug22352, and CSCug22462, this issue manifests specifically within the memory handling routines of the Android-based operating system components that support the DX650's collaboration features. The flaw operates at the system level where the API fails to properly validate input sizes before performing memory allocation operations, creating a predictable pattern of memory corruption that attackers can exploit through carefully crafted malicious inputs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential network infiltration. An attacker who successfully exploits this buffer overflow could gain elevated privileges on the device, potentially allowing them to install persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive communication data, or use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other network resources. The DX650 device typically operates in secure enterprise environments where it handles confidential business communications, making the potential for data breaches and unauthorized access particularly severe. The vulnerability affects not just individual device security but also broader network security postures, as collaboration devices often serve as entry points for lateral movement within corporate networks. Organizations using this device may face compliance violations and regulatory scrutiny if such vulnerabilities are exploited successfully, particularly in industries with strict data protection requirements.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment as provided by Cisco, alongside network segmentation and monitoring of the affected device. The remediation process involves updating the device firmware to versions that address the memory allocation flaws within the Android API implementation. Security teams should implement network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual memory access patterns or unexpected code execution. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as disabling unnecessary collaboration features, restricting network access to the device, and establishing regular security assessments of the endpoint. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for process injection techniques and T1071.004 for application layer protocols, as attackers would likely leverage the compromised device to establish persistent access and conduct further reconnaissance activities within the target network environment.