CVE-2007-0976 in Actsoft Dvd Tools
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the ActSoft DVD-Tools ActiveX control (dvdtools.ocx) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long DVD_TOOLS.OpenDVD property value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0976 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the ActSoft DVD-Tools ActiveX control component, specifically affecting the dvdtools.ocx file. This issue resides in the handling of the DVD_TOOLS.OpenDVD property, which is designed to manage DVD playback operations through a graphical user interface. The ActiveX control is commonly integrated into Windows-based applications and web browsers to provide multimedia functionality, particularly for DVD-related operations. The buffer overflow occurs when the application processes an excessively long string value passed to the OpenDVD property, exceeding the allocated memory buffer size and causing memory corruption.
This technical flaw stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the ActiveX control implementation. The vulnerability manifests when remote attackers craft malicious input strings that surpass the predetermined buffer limits, typically measured in bytes or characters. The overflow results in memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it enables remote code execution without requiring local system access, making it a significant threat to web-based environments where ActiveX controls are frequently deployed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system compromise, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the affected application. This can lead to complete system takeover, data theft, or deployment of additional malware. The vulnerability affects systems running Windows operating systems where the ActSoft DVD-Tools ActiveX control is installed, particularly those that process untrusted input through web browsers or multimedia applications. The exploitation process typically involves crafting a malicious web page or application that loads the vulnerable ActiveX control and passes an oversized parameter value, triggering the buffer overflow condition.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of unsafe memory operations in Windows-based applications. The attack pattern follows common exploit methodologies documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under techniques related to code injection and privilege escalation. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers, applying vendor patches if available, and implementing network-level restrictions to prevent access to potentially malicious content. The vulnerability demonstrates the persistent risks associated with legacy ActiveX controls and underscores the importance of maintaining updated security practices for older software components that remain in production environments.