CVE-2008-5279
CWE-119Published: November 29, 2008· Updated: Jun 16, 2026
Official Description
The Local ZIM Server (zcs.exe) in Zilab Chat and Instant Messaging (ZIM) Server 2.1 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) heap-based buffer overflows involving multiple vectors including a long room name and a long source account, and (2) a stack-based buffer overflow with a long username in an information request. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2008-5279 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
From a weakness classification perspective (CWE-119): Buffer overflow vulnerabilities can lead to arbitrary code execution or denial of service by corrupting adjacent memory.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (10)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (CWE-119)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2008-5279 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts