CVE-2014-3311 in WebEx Meetings Server
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the file-sharing feature in WebEx Meetings Client in Cisco WebEx Meetings Server and WebEx Meeting Center allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted data, aka Bug IDs CSCup62463 and CSCup58467.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-3311 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the file-sharing functionality of Cisco WebEx Meetings Client software. This flaw exists in both Cisco WebEx Meetings Server and WebEx Meeting Center implementations, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on these collaboration platforms. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory management within the file-sharing component that processes incoming data streams during collaborative sessions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the WebEx client processes specially crafted data packets during file sharing operations. Attackers can exploit this heap-based buffer overflow by sending maliciously formatted data that exceeds the allocated buffer space, causing memory corruption that can be leveraged to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Heap-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in heap memory allocations. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the program's execution flow by overwriting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical memory structures within the heap memory space.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-3311 is severe and far-reaching, as it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication or prior access to the target system. An attacker positioned anywhere on the network can exploit this vulnerability by initiating a file-sharing session with a malicious payload, potentially gaining complete control over the affected system. This capability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation. The vulnerability affects organizations using Cisco WebEx Meetings Server and WebEx Meeting Center versions that incorporate the vulnerable file-sharing component, making it particularly dangerous for enterprises that rely heavily on remote collaboration tools.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the latest security patches provided by Cisco, which address the heap overflow issue through proper input validation and memory management controls. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to WebEx services where possible, limiting the attack surface. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file-sharing activities or data transfers that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in client-side applications and highlights the need for regular security assessments of collaboration platforms. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls and monitoring for suspicious process execution patterns that may indicate successful exploitation of heap-based buffer overflow vulnerabilities.