Description: AOL Instant Messenger version 4.8.2790 will execute programs when a user clicks on a not-so-specially crafted hypertext link. Versions affected: AOL Instant Messenger 4.8.2790. 4.7.2480 is not vulnerable and neither is 5.0.2938. This bug was confirmed on both Windows 2000 and Windows ME. It is suspected that any version of windows would be vulnerable. AOL Contacted: July 25, 2002. Never sent a response. Details: When a malicious user sends a link pointing to an executable file and a victim clicks on said link, the file will be executed without any warning prompts. The url simply points to the filename. However, certain characters are not allowed including spaces. Thus the attacker is limited to running files on the same partition as the current directory and/or system folders. Since an attacker doesn't know the current directory they are likely to begin the url with a few "../../../../" to get to the root of the partition. Spaces cannot be entered, however this can be gotten around by using dos files names: i.e. "program files" becomes "progra~1". Here are a few examples: <a href = "notepad.exe">hi</a> <a href = "../../../../progra~1/trojan/trojan.exe">www.google.com</a> <a href = "../../../../you/get/the/point/exampl~1.exe">blah</a> All of these examples would run the program specified if the victim were to click on them. Solution: Upgrade or downgrade to any version of AIM other than 4.8.2790. Always check hyperlink urls before clicking on them. Personal Note: This is such a stupid vulnerability and AOL are a bunch of asshol~1 for not even responding after months. -BludClot -- ____________________________________________________ Get your own Hello Kitty email @ www.sanriotown.com Powered by Outblaze
