CVE-2000-0790 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The web-based folder display capability in Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.5 on Windows 98 allows local users to insert Trojan horse programs by modifying the Folder.htt file and using the InvokeVerb method in the ShellDefView ActiveX control to specify a default execute option for the first file that is listed in the folder.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2000-0790 represents a critical security flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.5 running on Windows 98 systems that exploits the web-based folder display functionality. This weakness enables local attackers to execute malicious code through a sophisticated attack vector involving ActiveX control manipulation and file system modifications. The vulnerability specifically targets the ShellDefView ActiveX control which is responsible for displaying folder contents in the explorer interface, creating a pathway for persistent malware deployment that leverages the trust relationships inherent in the Windows operating system architecture.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves modification of the Folder.htt file, which serves as a template for folder display functionality in Internet Explorer. When combined with the InvokeVerb method of the ShellDefView ActiveX control, this modification allows attackers to set a default execution option for the first file listed in any folder. This creates a persistent backdoor where the first file encountered in a directory structure becomes automatically executable with elevated privileges. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of ActiveX control abuse and file system manipulation, exploiting the trust model where legitimate system components are used to execute unauthorized code. This attack pattern aligns with CWE-110, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in a command, and demonstrates how seemingly benign system components can be weaponized for malicious purposes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Local users with minimal privileges can leverage this flaw to install persistent Trojan horse programs that execute automatically when folder contents are viewed, effectively creating a stealthy attack vector that can evade traditional antivirus detection mechanisms. The attack requires no network connectivity once the initial modification is made, allowing for offline persistence and making it particularly dangerous in environments where network monitoring is insufficient. This vulnerability demonstrates the danger of ActiveX controls in browser environments and highlights how desktop application integration can create unexpected security risks when not properly sandboxed or validated.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on multiple defensive layers including immediate patching of affected systems, implementation of ActiveX control restrictions, and enhanced file system monitoring. Organizations should disable unnecessary ActiveX controls and implement strict access controls for system files like Folder.htt that govern folder display behavior. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation and persistence techniques, specifically targeting the T1059 command and scripting interpreter and T1074 data staging sub-techniques. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for unauthorized modifications to system configuration files. The vulnerability underscores the importance of least privilege principles and demonstrates why legacy systems running outdated software require comprehensive security hardening measures to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.