CVE-2007-2771 in LeadTools JPEG 2000
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the LEAD Technologies LeadTools JPEG 2000 LEADJ2K.LEADJ2K.140 ActiveX control (LTJ2K14.ocx) 14.5.0.35 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long BitmapDataPath property.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2771 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the LEAD Technologies LeadTools JPEG 2000 LEADJ2K.LEADJ2K.140 ActiveX control version 14.5.0.35. This security weakness resides in the LTJ2K14.ocx component that handles JPEG 2000 image processing functionality through Microsoft Internet Explorer's ActiveX framework. The vulnerability specifically manifests when processing the BitmapDataPath property, which is designed to specify the path to bitmap data within JPEG 2000 files. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the ActiveX control's memory management routines, creating an exploitable condition that can be triggered through web-based attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic stack buffer overflow pattern where an attacker can manipulate the BitmapDataPath property with a carefully crafted string that exceeds the allocated buffer space. This overflow occurs because the ActiveX control fails to properly validate the length of the input data before copying it to a fixed-size stack buffer. When the malicious input exceeds the buffer boundaries, it overwrites adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data, enabling an attacker to redirect program execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it operates within the context of the user's browser session, allowing remote code execution without requiring any local privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. An attacker exploiting this flaw can gain arbitrary code execution capabilities with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable ActiveX control, typically resulting in full system compromise. The vulnerability affects all systems running Internet Explorer with the specific ActiveX control installed, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are commonly deployed for multimedia applications. The attack vector requires only a web page containing malicious content that triggers the vulnerable control, making it highly suitable for drive-by download attacks and phishing campaigns. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically focusing on the execution of malicious code through compromised ActiveX components.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2771 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and memory management practices. The most effective approach involves removing or disabling the vulnerable ActiveX control from affected systems, particularly in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are commonly deployed. Organizations should implement browser security policies that restrict ActiveX control execution or configure Internet Explorer to prompt users before loading ActiveX components. Additionally, applying the latest security patches from LEAD Technologies or migrating to alternative image processing libraries that do not rely on vulnerable ActiveX components provides long-term protection. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can help detect and block exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments should verify that no legacy ActiveX controls remain in production environments. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper software security practices including input validation, bounds checking, and secure coding methodologies that prevent similar issues in future software development cycles.