CVE-2006-1172 in Cryptomathic Cenroll ActiveX Control
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the createPKCS10 function in Cryptomathic Cenroll ActiveX Control 1.1.0.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors related to the TDC Digital signature.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1172 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the Cryptomathic Cenroll ActiveX Control version 1.1.0.0. This flaw specifically affects the createPKCS10 function which is responsible for generating PKCS#10 certificate signing requests. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation when processing TDC Digital signature related data structures, creating an exploitable condition that can be triggered remotely by malicious actors. The ActiveX control is commonly deployed in enterprise environments for digital certificate management and cryptographic operations, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow occurs through improper bounds checking within the createPKCS10 function where attacker-controlled data is copied to a fixed-size stack buffer without adequate size validation. When the TDC Digital signature data exceeds the allocated buffer space, it overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially overwriting return addresses and control data on the stack. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that allows attackers to manipulate program execution flow. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be initiated through web-based interfaces where ActiveX controls are automatically downloaded and executed, providing attackers with a remote code execution capability without requiring local system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain arbitrary code execution privileges on the target system, potentially enabling them to install backdoors, escalate privileges, or exfiltrate sensitive information. In enterprise environments where certificate management is critical for secure communications, this vulnerability could be leveraged to undermine the entire PKI infrastructure. The attack surface is broad as the ActiveX control is often deployed in web applications and internal systems where users may not be aware of the security implications of running unsigned ActiveX components. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, representing a classic path to persistent access through web-based exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-1172 should focus on immediate remediation through vendor-supplied patches and comprehensive security hardening. Organizations must disable or remove the vulnerable Cryptomathic Cenroll ActiveX Control from all affected systems until proper security updates are deployed. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to systems that may execute ActiveX controls, particularly in environments where the control is not essential for business operations. Security awareness training should emphasize the dangers of running unsigned ActiveX components and the importance of verifying software integrity before installation. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers can significantly reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in software development practices, aligning with security standards that emphasize secure coding methodologies to prevent similar buffer overflow conditions in future implementations.