CVE-2007-1120 in TeeChart Pro
Summary
by MITRE
The (1) Import.LoadFromURL and (2) Export.asText.SaveToFile functions in TeeChart Pro ActiveX control (TeeChart7.ocx) allow remote attackers to download a crafted .tee file to an arbitrary location. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/08/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1120 affects the TeeChart Pro ActiveX control version 7, specifically targeting two critical functions within the component's architecture. This issue represents a significant security flaw that enables remote attackers to manipulate the control's file handling mechanisms, potentially leading to unauthorized file operations on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and insufficient security controls within the Import.LoadFromURL and Export.asText.SaveToFile functions, which are designed to handle file operations within the ActiveX environment. These functions fail to properly validate or sanitize file paths and URLs, creating opportunities for attackers to craft malicious .tee files that can be downloaded and saved to arbitrary locations on the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the ActiveX control's trust model by leveraging the control's ability to load and save files through URL-based operations. When the Import.LoadFromURL function processes a crafted URL, it does not adequately validate the destination path or implement proper access controls, enabling attackers to specify any location on the target system where the malicious .tee file can be downloaded and saved. Similarly, the Export.asText.SaveToFile function lacks proper input validation, allowing attackers to specify arbitrary file paths for saving operations. This flaw operates at the core of the ActiveX control's file handling architecture, where the control assumes trust in the input parameters without implementing proper security checks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates within the Windows ActiveX framework, where controls are often granted elevated privileges and trust relationships with the operating system, making the exploitation potential more severe.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file operations, as it can be leveraged to execute more sophisticated attacks within the target environment. Attackers can use this vulnerability to download malicious files to critical system locations, potentially installing backdoors, rootkits, or other persistent threats. The arbitrary file download capability also enables attackers to overwrite existing system files or configuration files, leading to system instability or complete compromise. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices. The attack vector operates through the network, requiring no local privileges or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are often deployed for charting and data visualization purposes.
The security implications of CVE-2007-1120 are compounded by the widespread deployment of TeeChart Pro ActiveX controls in enterprise applications and web environments. Organizations using this component are particularly vulnerable when ActiveX controls are enabled in web browsers or when the controls are embedded in web applications that process untrusted input. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack scenarios including drive-by downloads, phishing attacks, or social engineering campaigns where users are tricked into visiting malicious websites that leverage the vulnerable ActiveX control. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be difficult to detect through traditional network-based security measures, as it involves legitimate ActiveX control functionality that is often whitelisted in security policies. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through ActiveX controls, and T1074.001 for data staging through file downloads. Organizations should implement comprehensive security measures including ActiveX control restrictions, network segmentation, and regular security assessments to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of affected TeeChart Pro components to version 7.01 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes for the identified path traversal issues. System administrators should also implement strict ActiveX control policies that disable or restrict the execution of untrusted ActiveX controls in web browsers and application environments. Network-level controls including firewall rules and web application firewalls should be configured to block suspicious file download patterns and limit access to known vulnerable ActiveX components. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected TeeChart Pro control within their environment and implement proper input validation and sanitization measures for any custom applications that interact with the control. The implementation of application whitelisting solutions and mandatory access controls can further reduce the exploitation risk by preventing unauthorized file operations through the vulnerable ActiveX functions. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be established to ensure that similar vulnerabilities are addressed promptly when discovered.