CVE-2007-1688 in PhotoParade Player
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the PhPInfo ActiveX control in PhPCtrl.dll in Callisto PhotoParade Player allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the FileVersionof property.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1688 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the PhPInfo ActiveX control component of the Callisto PhotoParade Player software. This security weakness resides in the PhPCtrl.dll library and specifically affects the FileVersionof property handling mechanism. The flaw manifests when the ActiveX control processes user-supplied input through the FileVersionof property, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized code execution privileges on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the ActiveX control's implementation, allowing malicious data to overflow allocated memory buffers and potentially overwrite critical program execution structures.
This buffer overflow vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as CWE-121, which classifies it as a stack-based buffer overflow condition. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it enables remote code execution without requiring local system access, making it a prime target for widespread exploitation. The flaw exists in the ActiveX control's property handling mechanism where the FileVersionof property does not properly validate the length or content of incoming data, creating opportunities for attackers to craft malicious payloads that exceed the allocated buffer space. When such malformed input is processed, the overflow can overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow to malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to establish persistent access to compromised systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal sensitive information, or deploy additional malware payloads within the target environment. The nature of ActiveX controls makes this particularly dangerous in corporate environments where these components are often deployed without proper security considerations. The vulnerability affects systems running vulnerable versions of Callisto PhotoParade Player, particularly when users visit malicious websites or open compromised email attachments that trigger the exploitation process. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond normal browsing activities, making it highly effective for mass deployment attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1688 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the vendor. Organizations must disable ActiveX controls in web browsers or implement strict security policies that prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious ActiveX components. The vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK framework techniques including T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers can leverage the compromised system for further lateral movement and persistent access. Security administrators should also implement network monitoring to detect unusual traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, while ensuring that all ActiveX controls are regularly audited for similar vulnerabilities. System hardening measures including disabling unnecessary ActiveX controls, implementing application whitelisting policies, and maintaining updated security patches across all systems can significantly reduce the attack surface and prevent successful exploitation of this and similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities.