CVE-2004-1908 in Freescan
Summary
by MITRE
McFreeScan.CoMcFreeScan.1 ActiveX object in Mcafee FreeScan allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via the GetSpecialFolderLocation function with certain parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1908 resides within the McFreeScan.CoMcFreeScan.1 ActiveX control distributed as part of McAfee FreeScan software. This ActiveX component presents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to extract sensitive system information through manipulation of the GetSpecialFolderLocation function. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the function receives certain parameter values that cause it to disclose directory paths and system locations that should remain confidential. This represents a classic information disclosure vulnerability that can provide attackers with valuable reconnaissance data for subsequent exploitation attempts.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the improper handling of input parameters within the ActiveX control's GetSpecialFolderLocation method. When an attacker supplies specific malicious parameters to this function, the control fails to properly validate or sanitize the inputs, resulting in unintended information leakage. The vulnerability stems from inadequate parameter validation and insufficient access controls within the ActiveX component, allowing unauthorized access to system directory structures that are typically protected from external inspection. This flaw directly maps to CWE-200, which describes improper information disclosure vulnerabilities where sensitive information is exposed to unauthorized actors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with critical system reconnaissance data that can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks. The disclosed directory paths may reveal system architecture details, application installation locations, and potentially sensitive file structures that could aid in privilege escalation or further exploitation. Attackers can use this information to craft targeted attacks against specific system components or to identify potential attack vectors within the compromised environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where McAfee FreeScan is deployed, as it creates an attack surface that can be exploited without requiring authentication or local system access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate removal of the vulnerable ActiveX control from affected systems, as the software is no longer supported and patched versions do not exist. System administrators should conduct thorough inventory checks to identify all instances of McAfee FreeScan installations and ensure complete removal of the vulnerable components. Browser security configurations should be adjusted to prevent execution of ActiveX controls from untrusted sources, and users should be educated about the risks associated with ActiveX controls and the importance of maintaining updated security practices. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and access control implementation in client-side components, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through ActiveX controls and T1068 for privilege escalation through information discovery. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to address legacy software vulnerabilities and ensure that outdated security tools are properly decommissioned to prevent exploitation.