CVE-2007-2848 in Shell MegaPack ActiveX
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the SetPath function in the shComboBox ActiveX control (shcmb80.ocx) in Sky Software Shell MegaPack ActiveX 8.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long argument. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/19/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2848 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the shComboBox ActiveX control component of Sky Software Shell MegaPack ActiveX version 8.0. This particular vulnerability manifests in the SetPath function of the shcmb80.ocx ActiveX control, which is a widely used component in Windows environments for creating combobox interfaces. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation within the ActiveX control's implementation, creating a scenario where malicious input can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The vulnerability operates under CWE-121, which categorizes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite stack memory. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable application, making it a prime target for exploitation in attack frameworks such as those documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under techniques related to code injection and privilege escalation.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker provides a maliciously crafted argument to the SetPath function of the shComboBox ActiveX control. The lack of proper bounds checking in the function allows the input string to exceed the allocated buffer space on the stack, causing adjacent memory locations to be overwritten. This overflow can corrupt the return address of the function, enabling an attacker to redirect execution flow to malicious code injected into the stack. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because ActiveX controls are commonly used in web applications and can be automatically executed when users visit compromised websites, making this a remote code execution vulnerability. The attack vector is typically initiated through web browsers that support ActiveX controls, where the malicious payload is delivered through specially crafted web content that triggers the vulnerable SetPath function when the ActiveX control is instantiated.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, modify system files, establish persistence mechanisms, or escalate privileges to gain administrative access to affected systems. The vulnerability affects systems running Windows operating systems where the Sky Software Shell MegaPack ActiveX 8.0 component is installed, particularly those with ActiveX support enabled in web browsers. Organizations using this ActiveX control in their applications or websites face significant risk, as the vulnerability can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The exploitation process aligns with ATT&CK techniques for code injection and privilege escalation, as demonstrated by the ability to overwrite function return addresses and redirect execution flow. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a classic example of how legacy ActiveX components can introduce security risks into modern computing environments, particularly when they lack proper input validation mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2848 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by Sky Software, though given the age of this vulnerability, such patches may no longer be available. Organizations should implement browser security measures such as disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers, particularly in environments where ActiveX is not essential for business operations. Network-based mitigations include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious input patterns targeting known ActiveX vulnerabilities. System administrators should conduct thorough inventory assessments to identify all systems running affected ActiveX controls and consider decommissioning or replacing legacy components that cannot be patched. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in software development, particularly for components that operate in untrusted environments. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that prevent execution of untrusted ActiveX controls, and deploy intrusion detection systems that can identify exploitation attempts targeting this and similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities.