CVE-2015-5653 in Trend Web Server
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Canary Labs Trend Web Server before 9.5.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted TCP packet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-5653 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Trend Web Server product line manufactured by Canary Labs. This issue affects versions prior to 9.5.2 and creates a remote code execution vector that can be exploited through carefully crafted TCP packets. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the server's network processing routines, specifically when handling incoming TCP traffic that exceeds predetermined buffer boundaries. The flaw manifests when the server receives malformed network data that triggers memory corruption, potentially allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations and gain unauthorized control over the affected system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checking allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory regions. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates at the network protocol level, enabling remote exploitation without requiring authentication or local access privileges. The buffer overflow occurs during TCP packet processing when the Trend Web Server fails to properly validate the length of incoming data against available buffer space, creating opportunities for stack or heap corruption. This type of vulnerability typically enables attackers to manipulate program execution flow through techniques such as return-oriented programming or direct code injection.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-5653 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential system compromise and persistent access capabilities. Once successfully exploited, attackers can gain full control over the affected server, potentially using it as a pivot point for further network reconnaissance and lateral movement. The vulnerability's remote nature means that adversaries can target systems from outside the network perimeter, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed web servers. The attack vector specifically targets TCP packet handling, which is fundamental to web server operations, meaning that any service relying on the affected Trend Web Server version could be compromised. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of software vulnerabilities for remote code execution, and T1071.004, covering application layer protocol usage for command and control communications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-5653 primarily focus on immediate version upgrades to Trend Web Server 9.5.2 or later, which contain patches addressing the buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable servers to untrusted networks. Additional defensive measures include network intrusion detection systems that can identify anomalous TCP packet patterns associated with exploitation attempts, as well as comprehensive monitoring for unauthorized access or unusual system behavior. Security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software across their infrastructure and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place to prevent similar issues in the future. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of input validation and memory safety practices in network service implementations, aligning with industry best practices for secure coding and defensive programming techniques.