CVE-2019-25611 in MiniFtp
Summary
by MITRE • 03/22/2026
MiniFtp contains a buffer overflow vulnerability in the parseconf_load_setting function that allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code by supplying oversized configuration values. Attackers can craft a miniftpd.conf file with values exceeding 128 bytes to overflow stack buffers and overwrite the return address, enabling code execution with root privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/22/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-25611 resides within the MiniFtp FTP server implementation and represents a classic stack-based buffer overflow flaw that fundamentally compromises system security. This vulnerability specifically affects the parseconf_load_setting function, which serves as the configuration parsing mechanism for the miniftpd daemon. The flaw manifests when the software processes configuration files without adequate bounds checking, allowing attackers to supply oversized input values that exceed the allocated buffer space. The buffer overflow occurs at the stack level where the return address and other critical execution context information can be overwritten, providing a direct pathway for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security architectures. The attack vector requires local privilege escalation since the attacker must have the ability to modify the miniftpd.conf configuration file, typically requiring access to the system or user account with write permissions. When a malicious configuration file containing oversized values exceeding 128 bytes is processed, the buffer overflow enables attackers to overwrite the return address on the stack, effectively redirecting program execution flow. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited to execute code with the privileges of the running daemon, which typically operates with root privileges in most installations.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-25611 extends beyond simple code execution, representing a complete compromise of system integrity and confidentiality. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can gain root access to systems running MiniFtp, enabling them to install backdoors, modify system files, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access. The attack requires minimal sophistication since it exploits a well-understood buffer overflow pattern that has been documented in numerous security advisories and penetration testing frameworks. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability fits well within the ATT&CK framework under the T1068 privilege escalation technique, specifically targeting the T1068.1000 local privilege escalation sub-technique. The vulnerability's exploitation also relates to T1543.003 persistence mechanisms since attackers can use the elevated privileges to install malicious software that maintains access across system reboots.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-25611 should encompass multiple layers of defense to protect against exploitation attempts. The primary recommendation involves immediate patching of the affected software to address the buffer overflow vulnerability in the parseconf_load_setting function. Organizations should also implement strict file access controls on the miniftpd.conf configuration file to prevent unauthorized modifications, utilizing mandatory access controls or file integrity monitoring solutions. Network segmentation and privilege separation practices should be enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing input validation controls and bounds checking within the application code to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other software components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper memory management practices and input validation as fundamental security controls that should be integrated into all software development lifecycle processes, aligning with industry best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks for secure coding practices.