CVE-2023-47586 in V-Server
Summary
by MITRE • 11/15/2023
Multiple heap-based buffer overflow vulnerabilities exist in V-Server V4.0.18.0 and earlier and V-Server Lite V4.0.18.0 and earlier. If a user opens a specially crafted VPR file, information may be disclosed and/or arbitrary code may be executed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/10/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-47586 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting V-Server software versions 4.0.18.0 and earlier, including both the standard V-Server and V-Server Lite variants. This flaw resides in the file parsing mechanism responsible for handling VPR (V-Server Project) files, which are commonly used for project management and configuration within the V-Server environment. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking during the processing of malformed VPR files, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory allocation patterns and execute malicious code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper handling of user-supplied data within heap memory structures. When a user opens a specially crafted VPR file, the application fails to properly validate the size and structure of data elements within the file, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite adjacent heap blocks. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow, which is classified as a direct result of inadequate bounds checking in memory management operations. The flaw allows attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application, making it particularly dangerous in environments where V-Server is used for critical infrastructure management.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to include potential information disclosure and system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to sensitive system information, potentially including configuration data, user credentials, or other confidential information stored within the V-Server environment. The attack vector requires user interaction through opening a malicious file, making it susceptible to social engineering campaigns where attackers might distribute infected VPR files through email attachments, file sharing platforms, or compromised websites. This makes the vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations that rely heavily on V-Server for project management and collaboration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-47586 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that address the heap overflow vulnerabilities. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies, including sandboxing mechanisms for VPR file processing and limiting user access to potentially malicious files. Network segmentation and monitoring can help detect anomalous file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation for privilege escalation, and T1059, covering command and script injection. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls to prevent execution of unauthorized software and establish robust incident response procedures for potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the organization's attack surface.