Source: cve@mitre.org
Buffer overflow in NetMeeting allows denial of service and remote command execution.
NetMeeting, a legacy Microsoft application, suffers from a critical buffer overflow vulnerability allowing for remote code execution. Successful exploitation grants attackers complete control of the compromised system, enabling data theft, system compromise, and lateral movement within the network. This vulnerability poses a significant risk due to its potential for widespread impact and ease of exploitation.
Step 1: Target Identification: The attacker identifies systems running NetMeeting, likely through port scanning (e.g., port 1720 for H.323).
Step 2: Payload Crafting: The attacker crafts a malicious payload designed to overflow a specific buffer within NetMeeting. This payload includes malicious code (shellcode) and data to overwrite critical memory locations, such as the return address.
Step 3: Payload Delivery: The attacker sends the crafted payload to the vulnerable NetMeeting instance, typically via a network connection.
Step 4: Buffer Overflow Trigger: NetMeeting processes the malicious payload, triggering the buffer overflow. The attacker's data overwrites the buffer and potentially other memory regions.
Step 5: Code Execution: The overwritten memory, including the return address, is manipulated to point to the attacker's shellcode. When the function returns, the attacker's code is executed.
Step 6: System Compromise: The attacker's shellcode executes, granting them control over the compromised system. This could involve installing malware, creating backdoors, or stealing sensitive data.
The vulnerability lies within NetMeeting's handling of incoming data, likely during the processing of a specific network protocol or message type. The root cause is a buffer overflow, where the application fails to properly validate the size of incoming data before copying it into a fixed-size buffer. This allows an attacker to send a specially crafted payload that exceeds the buffer's capacity, overwriting adjacent memory regions. This memory corruption can overwrite critical program data, including function pointers, leading to arbitrary code execution. The specific function or logic flaw is likely related to how NetMeeting parses and processes network packets, potentially within a function responsible for handling incoming call requests or data streams. The lack of bounds checking on input data is the core of the problem.
Due to the age of the vulnerability, it is unlikely to be directly associated with specific, modern APT groups. However, any threat actor with basic skills could exploit this vulnerability. The vulnerability's potential for remote code execution makes it a prime target for opportunistic attacks. Not listed on CISA KEV due to its age and the application's obsolescence.
Network traffic analysis looking for unusual patterns on port 1720 (H.323).
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) configured with signatures for known NetMeeting exploits.
Host-based Intrusion Detection Systems (HIDS) monitoring for suspicious process behavior related to NetMeeting.
Reviewing NetMeeting logs for errors or unusual activity.
Memory forensics on compromised systems to identify evidence of buffer overflows.
Uninstall NetMeeting: The most effective remediation is to remove NetMeeting from all systems. This eliminates the attack surface entirely.
Network Segmentation: If NetMeeting cannot be removed, segment the network to isolate systems running it from critical assets.
Firewall Rules: Implement strict firewall rules to restrict access to port 1720 (H.323) and other potentially relevant ports.
Vulnerability Scanning: Regularly scan the network for vulnerable systems using vulnerability scanners.
Patching (if available): While unlikely, check for any unofficial or community-created patches for NetMeeting. However, this is not a recommended approach due to the application's age and lack of official support.
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Deploy EDR solutions to detect and respond to malicious activity on endpoints, including attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
User Education: Educate users about the risks of using outdated software and the importance of reporting suspicious activity.