CVE-2004-0364 in Norton Internet Security
Summary
by MITRE
The WrapNISUM ActiveX component (WrapUM.dll) in Norton Internet Security 2004 is marked safe for scripting, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary programs via the LaunchURL method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0364 represents a critical security flaw in the WrapNISUM ActiveX component distributed with Norton Internet Security 2004. This component, specifically the WrapUM.dll file, was incorrectly configured with unsafe security permissions that permitted remote code execution through the LaunchURL method. The issue stems from the component's improper marking as "safe for scripting" within the Windows ActiveX security model, which should have restricted its capabilities but instead granted it elevated privileges that could be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the LaunchURL method which allows attackers to invoke arbitrary programs on vulnerable systems. When an ActiveX control is marked as safe for scripting, it bypasses certain security restrictions that would normally prevent it from executing potentially harmful code. In this case, the WrapNISUM component's configuration allowed remote attackers to leverage this permission to launch executable files, effectively granting them the ability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This flaw directly violates the principle of least privilege and represents a classic example of insecure ActiveX component deployment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within compromised networks. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can install backdoors, steal sensitive information, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks against other network resources. The vulnerability affects systems running Norton Internet Security 2004, which was widely deployed in enterprise environments, making the potential attack surface substantial. This issue aligns with CWE-431 and CWE-74 standards related to improper handling of ActiveX controls and insecure component configurations, respectively.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, particularly under the T1190 technique for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter. The vulnerability demonstrates how legacy security software can introduce new attack vectors rather than providing protection. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including disabling the problematic ActiveX control, updating to newer versions of Norton Internet Security, or implementing application whitelisting policies that prevent execution of potentially malicious ActiveX components. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of proper security configuration management and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar issues in other security software components.