SYMSA1023

Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2002 Buffer Overflow Vulnerability

Last Updated February 28, 2003
Initial Publication Date February 28, 2003
  • Status: Closed
  • Severity: Low
  • CVSS Base Score:

Symantec is aware of an issue with Symantec Norton AntiViurs 2002 where a compressed zip file attachment that possess an overly long filename is scanned. This may lead to the execution of arbitrary code in the security context of the user currently logged onto the target system. An update for Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2002 to address this issue is now available via LiveUpdate. Localized versions of the patch are being worked on.

Components Affected
Norton AntiVirus 2002

Description
On December 26, 2002, Symantec became aware of an issue originally reported by the Security Net Services (SNS) security research group. By receiving a compressed zip file attachment with an excessively long file name, a buffer overflow can lead to arbitrary code in the security context of the user currently logged onto the target system.

Symantec Response
Symantec engineers have evaluated and verified that this issue exists for Symantec's Norton AntiVirus 2002. Newer versions such as of Norton AntiVirus 2003 are not affected by this issue.

Symantec takes any product issue such as this very seriously. We have developed an update for Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2002 to address this issue. The update is now available via LiveUpdate. Localized versions of the patch are being worked on.

As a best practice, Symantec recommends keeping all operating systems and applications updated with the latest vendor patches. Keeping mission-critical systems updated with all security patches applied reduces risk exposure. Symantec further recommends using a multi-layered approach to security. Users, at a minimum, should run both personal firewall and antivirus applications to provide multiple points of detection and protection to both inbound and outbound threats.

Users should further be wary of mysterious attachments and executables delivered via email. Do not open attachments or executables from unknown sources. Always err on the side of caution. Even if the sender is known, be wary of attachments if the sender does not explain the attachment content in the body of the email. You do not know the source of the attachment. If in doubt, contact the sender before opening the attachment. If still in doubt, delete the attachment without opening it.

Symantec appreciates the support of Little eArth Corporation Co., Ltd (LAC), Japan. For information about their SecureNet Service advisories, visit their Web site

SYM03-002

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