This flaw, a buffer overflow in the SQL Resolution Service, allowed remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with system privileges. ISS highlighted the severe risk of compromise, including data theft and system takeover. They emphasized the urgent need for administrators to apply Microsoft's patch (MS02-039) immediately.
The brief also warned of the potential for this vulnerability to be exploited by self-propagating worms, a common threat at the time. It underscored the importance of network segmentation and intrusion detection systems to mitigate such risks. This alert was a crucial heads-up for organizations relying on SQL Server, preceding major worm outbreaks like SQL Slammer.
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Internet Security Systems Security Brief
July 24, 2002
Remote Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in Microsoft Exchange Server
Synopsis:
Microsoft Exchange Server Internet Mail Connector (IMC) provides SMTP
(Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) functionality. It is possible for remote
attackers to formulate a request to trigger a buffer overflow on a
vulnerable Exchange server. This flaw may allow an attacker to either
crash Exchange and block all inbound and outbound email delivery or
allow an attacker to gain complete control of the server.
Impact:
Microsoft Exchange Server is typically exposed to the Internet in order
to send and receive email. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability
can occur through properly configured firewalls. Microsoft Exchange 5.5
is the most heavily deployed version of Exchange on the Internet.
Microsoft reports that over 100 million Exchange licenses have been sold
(http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/Press/2002/Jan02/01-23MarketLeaderPR.
asp).
Affected Versions:
Microsoft Exchange Server version 5.5
For the complete ISS X-Force Security Advisory, please visit:
http://bvlive01.iss.net/issEn/delivery/xforce/alertdetail.jsp?oid=20759
______
About Internet Security Systems (ISS)
Founded in 1994, Internet Security Systems (ISS) (Nasdaq: ISSX) is a
pioneer and world leader in software and services that protect critical
online resources from an ever-changing spectrum of threats and misuse.
Internet Security Systems is headquartered in Atlanta, GA, with
additional operations throughout the Americas, Asia, Australia, Europe
and the Middle East.
Copyright (c) 2002 Internet Security Systems, Inc. All rights reserved
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X-Force PGP Key available on MIT's PGP key server and PGP.com's key server,
as well as at http://www.iss.net/security_center/sensitive.php
Please send suggestions, updates, and comments to: X-Force
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