CVE-2021-26623 in Bandizip
Summary
by MITRE • 04/02/2022
A remote code execution vulnerability due to incomplete check for 'xheader_decode_path_record' function's parameter length value in the ark library. Remote attackers can induce exploit malicious code using this function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-26623 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the ark library, specifically concerning the xheader_decode_path_record function. This issue stems from an inadequate validation mechanism that fails to properly check the length parameter of the function's input, creating a potential attack vector for malicious actors. The ark library, commonly used for archive handling operations, processes various archive formats including tar and other compressed file types, making this vulnerability particularly concerning given the widespread use of such libraries in software development and system administration tasks. The incomplete parameter length validation allows attackers to craft specially malformed input that can trigger unexpected behavior within the library's processing logic.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the xheader_decode_path_record function receives input with an improperly validated length parameter, enabling attackers to manipulate the function's execution flow. This flaw falls under the category of buffer over-read conditions and memory corruption issues, which are classified under CWE-129 and CWE-787 in the Common Weakness Enumeration system. The vulnerability enables an attacker to manipulate the function's internal state through crafted input, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on the target system. The attack typically involves sending specially crafted archive data containing malicious xheader information that bypasses normal validation checks and triggers the vulnerable code path. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, allowing attackers to execute code on systems processing the affected archive files.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-26623 extends across numerous systems and applications that utilize the ark library for archive processing functionality. This includes but is not limited to content management systems, backup solutions, file transfer applications, and various software development tools that handle compressed archives. The vulnerability affects systems where archive files are processed automatically without proper input sanitization, creating potential for widespread compromise across different environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malware payloads on compromised systems. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target vulnerable systems from outside the network perimeter, significantly increasing the attack surface and potential damage. This vulnerability directly maps to several techniques in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to execution through archive files and remote code execution via library manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems and applications that utilize the vulnerable ark library version. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation measures to ensure all parameters passed to the xheader_decode_path_record function are properly checked for length constraints and content legitimacy. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit potential attack vectors, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify other potentially vulnerable components within the software stack. The remediation process involves updating to patched versions of the ark library, implementing proper parameter validation routines, and establishing monitoring protocols to detect anomalous archive processing activities. Additionally, security teams should consider implementing application whitelisting policies and restricting the execution of archive processing functions to trusted sources only. Regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing should be performed to ensure that similar issues are not present in other library components or related systems that may be susceptible to similar exploitation techniques.