CVE-2006-3391 in iMBCContents ActiveX Control
Summary
by MITRE
The Execute function in iMBCContents ActiveX Control before 2.0.0.59 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary files via the file URI handler.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/20/2017
The CVE-2006-3391 vulnerability affects the iMBCContents ActiveX Control version 2.0.0.59 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw in Microsoft Windows operating systems. This vulnerability resides within the Execute function of the ActiveX control, which is designed to handle file operations through URI handlers. The flaw enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems by manipulating the file URI handler mechanism. The vulnerability specifically targets the improper validation of file paths and URI schemes within the ActiveX control, creating an execution path that bypasses normal security boundaries. This issue is particularly dangerous because ActiveX controls operate with elevated privileges when executed in web browsers, making the potential impact of arbitrary code execution severe. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of input sanitization and improper access control, allowing attackers to inject malicious file paths that get executed without proper authorization checks. Attackers can exploit this by crafting specially formatted URLs that point to malicious files, which then get executed through the vulnerable ActiveX control.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the ActiveX control's failure to properly validate and sanitize input parameters passed to the Execute function. When a user visits a malicious webpage containing crafted ActiveX calls, the control processes the URI handler without adequate verification of the file path or scheme. This design flaw aligns with CWE-74, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements in output used by a downstream component, and CWE-94, which covers inadequate control of generation of code. The vulnerability creates an environment where attacker-controlled input flows directly into system execution commands, bypassing typical security mechanisms. The file URI handler in the iMBCContents control lacks proper restrictions on file access patterns, allowing traversal attacks and arbitrary file execution. The control's design does not implement proper privilege separation or input validation, making it susceptible to injection attacks that could lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-3391 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to establish persistent access and escalate privileges within affected environments. Successful exploitation can result in full system compromise, allowing attackers to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, or deploy additional malware. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are often enabled by default, creating a wide attack surface. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to conduct targeted attacks against specific users or organizations, especially those using older versions of the iMBCContents control. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including phishing emails, malicious websites, or compromised web applications that embed the vulnerable ActiveX control. Security professionals must consider this vulnerability as part of broader attack chains that could lead to data breaches, privilege escalation, or lateral movement within networks. The exploitation requires minimal technical expertise, making it attractive to threat actors across different skill levels.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-3391 primarily focus on disabling or removing the vulnerable ActiveX control from affected systems. Organizations should implement browser security policies that block ActiveX controls or restrict their execution to trusted sites only. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to iMBCContents version 2.0.0.59 or later, which contains proper input validation and URI handler restrictions. System administrators should also configure group policies to prevent ActiveX controls from running in web browsers, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted content. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can help detect and block malicious ActiveX requests. Security monitoring should include detection of ActiveX control usage patterns and unusual file execution behaviors. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping software updated. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing proper input validation, which aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized ActiveX controls, which provides defense-in-depth against similar vulnerabilities.