CVE-2018-12422 in evolution-data-server
Summary
by MITRE
addressbook/backends/ldap/e-book-backend-ldap.c in Evolution-Data-Server in GNOME Evolution through 3.29.2 might allow attackers to trigger a Buffer Overflow via a long query that is processed by the strcat function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-12422 resides within the Evolution-Data-Server component of the GNOME Evolution email client suite, specifically in the LDAP address book backend implementation. This buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the e-book-backend-ldap.c file which handles LDAP directory queries for address book functionality. The flaw manifests when processing user-supplied LDAP queries that exceed predetermined buffer limits, creating a potential exploitation vector for remote attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and unsafe string manipulation practices within the LDAP query processing code. When a maliciously crafted LDAP query containing excessive data is submitted to the address book backend, the strcat function processes this input without adequate bounds checking. This function concatenates strings without verifying that the destination buffer can accommodate the combined length of source and destination strings, leading to memory corruption that can result in arbitrary code execution or application crash.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it represents a critical security weakness that could enable remote code execution on systems running vulnerable versions of GNOME Evolution. Attackers could potentially leverage this flaw to execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected user, particularly when the Evolution client processes untrusted LDAP directory data from network sources. The vulnerability affects all versions through 3.29.2, making it a widespread concern for organizations relying on GNOME Evolution for email and contact management services.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that LDAP queries are commonly used in enterprise environments for directory services integration, making this a potential vector for lateral movement and privilege escalation. Organizations using Evolution-Data-Server in production environments should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader security posture assessment, particularly in scenarios involving network-based directory services or when Evolution clients process data from untrusted sources.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment for all affected versions, alongside network segmentation to limit LDAP query sources and implementation of input validation controls for address book backend components. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual LDAP query patterns and buffer overflow indicators in system logs. Additionally, organizations should implement principle of least privilege configurations for Evolution client processes and consider alternative address book backends where feasible to reduce exposure to this class of vulnerability.