CVE-2007-3147 in Yahoo!
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the Yahoo! Webcam Upload ActiveX control in ywcupl.dll 2.0.1.4 for Yahoo! Messenger 8.1.0.249 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long server property value to the send method. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3147 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Yahoo Messenger 8.1.0.249, creating a dangerous security exposure that can be exploited by remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution capabilities. The vulnerability manifests through improper input validation within the ActiveX control's send method, specifically when handling the server property parameter. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 buffer overflow category, which is classified as a critical weakness in memory management and input handling within software applications.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a maliciously long server property value and passes it to the send method of the vulnerable ActiveX control. This excessive input length causes the buffer allocated for storing the server property value to overflow, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including return addresses and executable code segments. The flaw represents a classic stack-based buffer overflow scenario where the ActiveX control fails to properly validate the length of input data before copying it into fixed-size buffers, allowing attackers to manipulate the program's execution flow and inject malicious code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the context of a web browser environment where ActiveX controls are executed, making it accessible through web-based attack vectors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Successful exploitation can result in unauthorized remote code execution, allowing attackers to install malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's accessibility through web-based attacks makes it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where users may inadvertently visit malicious websites or receive crafted email attachments containing malicious web content. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents an attack vector through a publicly accessible application component that can be exploited remotely.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate remediation through patching and updating the affected Yahoo! Messenger version, as the original vendor released fixes to address the buffer overflow in the ywcupl.dll component. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to potentially vulnerable ActiveX controls and consider disabling ActiveX controls in browser environments where they are not essential. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious ActiveX control usage patterns and network traffic that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in software development practices, as recommended by industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure coding practices. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of running outdated software components and the importance of maintaining current security patches to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.