CVE-2007-2853 in Virtual CD
Summary
by MITRE
The VCDAPILibApi ActiveX control in vc9api.DLL 9.0.0.57 in Virtual CD 9.0.0.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a command line in the first argument to the VCDLaunchAndWait function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2853 resides within the VCDAPILibApi ActiveX control component of Virtual CD software version 9.0.0.2. This particular ActiveX control is implemented through the vc9api.DLL file with version 9.0.0.57 and represents a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution through improper input validation. The vulnerability specifically affects the VCDLaunchAndWait function which processes command line arguments without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. This design flaw creates an exploitable condition where malicious actors can inject arbitrary commands through the first argument of the function call, effectively bypassing normal execution boundaries and gaining unauthorized control over the affected system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a classic buffer overflow and command injection pattern that violates fundamental security principles of input validation and privilege separation. When the VCDLaunchAndWait function receives its first argument, it directly passes this input to system execution functions without proper sanitization or parameter validation, creating a path for arbitrary command execution. This weakness aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and represents a variant of the broader command injection vulnerability category. The ActiveX control architecture inherently operates with elevated privileges within the browser context, amplifying the potential impact of this flaw as attackers can leverage it to execute malicious code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable software.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-2853 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary commands on targeted systems, potentially installing malware, creating backdoors, or exfiltrating sensitive data. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require local system access or physical presence, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are often enabled by default. This flaw directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers legitimate user execution through command-line interfaces, and T1059, which covers command and script interpreters, as the vulnerability enables attackers to leverage system command execution capabilities through the compromised ActiveX control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2853 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary recommendation involves disabling or removing the vulnerable ActiveX control from affected systems, particularly in environments where ActiveX is not essential for business operations. System administrators should implement strict ActiveX control policies and consider disabling ActiveX controls entirely in web browsers unless absolutely required for specific applications. Additionally, the vulnerability underscores the importance of application whitelisting and least privilege principles, as demonstrated by ATT&CK technique T1137 which addresses application installation and execution restrictions. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring to detect suspicious command execution patterns, while ensuring that all software components undergo regular security assessments and patch management procedures. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why legacy software components should be carefully evaluated for security risks, particularly those that operate with elevated privileges or execute system commands.