CVE-2024-22667 in vim
Summary
by MITRE • 02/05/2024
Vim before 9.0.2142 has a stack-based buffer overflow because did_set_langmap in map.c calls sprintf to write to the error buffer that is passed down to the option callback functions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-22667 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow in Vim editor versions prior to 9.0.2142. This flaw resides in the did_set_langmap function within the map.c source file, where the application employs sprintf for writing to an error buffer that is subsequently passed to option callback functions. The issue stems from insufficient bounds checking when formatting strings into the error buffer, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of string formatting operations within Vim's language mapping configuration system. When users configure language mappings through the editor's interface, the did_set_langmap function processes these settings and utilizes sprintf to construct error messages. However, the buffer allocated for error reporting does not adequately account for the potential size of formatted output, particularly when dealing with malformed or excessively long input data. This oversight creates a classic stack buffer overflow scenario where data written beyond the allocated buffer boundaries can overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to users who frequently configure language mappings or work with internationalized text processing. Attackers can exploit this flaw by crafting malicious input that triggers the vulnerable sprintf call with oversized format strings, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user. The vulnerability affects systems where Vim is installed and actively used, particularly in environments where users may be exposed to untrusted input or where automated configuration processes might be exploited. The impact extends beyond simple denial of service to include potential privilege escalation and remote code execution scenarios.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overflow into adjacent memory locations. This classification emphasizes the fundamental nature of the flaw as a memory safety issue that can be exploited through careful manipulation of input data to overflow buffer boundaries. The attack surface is further expanded when considering ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and code execution through software vulnerabilities, as this flaw can be leveraged to gain elevated system privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-22667 primarily involve updating to Vim version 9.0.2142 or later, which includes patches addressing the buffer overflow condition in the did_set_langmap function. System administrators should prioritize patching affected installations, particularly in enterprise environments where Vim is widely used for text editing and scripting operations. Additional protective measures include implementing input validation for language mapping configurations, restricting user privileges when running Vim, and monitoring for suspicious configuration changes that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unpatched Vim versions and maintain regular vulnerability scanning to identify systems that may still be exposed to this or similar buffer overflow conditions.