CVE-2006-4221 in eGatherer
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the IBM Access Support eGatherer ActiveX control before 3.20.0284.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long filename parameter to the RunEgatherer method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4221 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the IBM Access Support eGatherer ActiveX control, specifically affecting versions prior to 3.20.0284.0. This vulnerability resides in the RunEgatherer method which processes filename parameters without proper bounds checking, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The issue manifests due to inadequate input validation mechanisms within the ActiveX control's implementation, allowing maliciously crafted input to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking permits memory corruption. The flaw occurs when the ActiveX control receives a filename parameter that exceeds the allocated buffer space, causing the stack to be overwritten with attacker-controlled data. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of memory corruption vulnerabilities that are particularly dangerous due to their potential for arbitrary code execution. The attack vector is remote, meaning that an attacker can exploit this vulnerability through network-based delivery mechanisms without requiring local system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain full system control of vulnerable machines. When exploited successfully, the buffer overflow can lead to privilege escalation, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects systems running IBM Access Support eGatherer versions earlier than 3.20.0284.0, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where legacy software components may still be in use. Organizations utilizing ActiveX controls for remote support and system management functions face heightened risk from this flaw, as it can be exploited through web browsers or other application contexts where ActiveX controls are enabled.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4221 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates to the latest version of IBM Access Support eGatherer that contains the necessary security patches. System administrators should implement strict browser security policies that disable ActiveX controls or restrict their execution to trusted sites only. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit the attack surface by blocking unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable ActiveX controls. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software across their network infrastructure. The remediation process should include monitoring for exploitation attempts and implementing intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation activities targeting this specific vulnerability. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted ActiveX controls and maintain updated threat intelligence feeds to stay informed about similar vulnerabilities in legacy software components.