CVE-2007-2648 in Clever Database Comparer
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the Clever Database Comparer 2.2 ActiveX control (comparerax.ocx) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long argument to the ConnectToDatabase function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/27/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2648 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Clever Database Comparer 2.2 ActiveX control component. This security weakness resides in the comparerax.ocx file which is part of a database comparison utility designed for windows environments. The vulnerability specifically manifests when processing input parameters through the ConnectToDatabase function, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited remotely without requiring local system access. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the ActiveX control's implementation, creating an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic buffer overflow pattern where a maliciously crafted argument exceeding the allocated buffer space in memory causes a stack overwrite. When the ConnectToDatabase function processes an overly long argument, it fails to properly validate the input length against the buffer boundaries, allowing the excess data to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. This memory corruption can potentially overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which represents one of the most common and dangerous types of memory corruption vulnerabilities in legacy software applications. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it operates over remote networks, allowing attackers to deliver malicious payloads through web browsers or other applications that load the vulnerable ActiveX control.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, creating significant risks for organizations relying on the Clever Database Comparer software. Remote code execution capabilities enable attackers to gain complete control over affected systems, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, or deployment of additional malware. The vulnerability affects systems running Windows operating environments where the ActiveX control is installed, particularly those that automatically load ActiveX components from web sources. Attackers can leverage this flaw by constructing malicious web pages or email attachments that trigger the vulnerable ConnectToDatabase function when the ActiveX control is loaded in a browser context. The exploit chain typically involves crafting a specially formatted argument string that, when passed to the function, causes the buffer overflow to overwrite critical execution pointers. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command and script interpretation, demonstrating how legacy ActiveX vulnerabilities can provide persistent access to target systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2648 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary recommendation involves immediate removal or disabling of the vulnerable comparerax.ocx ActiveX control from all affected systems, particularly those accessible from untrusted networks. Organizations should implement browser security policies that prevent automatic loading of ActiveX controls, especially those from untrusted sources, as outlined in Microsoft security guidance for legacy ActiveX components. Network administrators should deploy firewall rules and web application firewalls to block access to known vulnerable ActiveX control files and implement strict content filtering to prevent delivery of malicious payloads. Additionally, system administrators should ensure that all Windows systems are patched with the latest security updates and consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted ActiveX controls. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in software development practices, aligning with secure coding principles that emphasize defensive programming techniques. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other legacy ActiveX controls or components that may present similar security risks, as the presence of one vulnerable component often indicates potential issues with other legacy software elements.