CVE-2007-3233 in TBarCode OCX
Summary
by MITRE
The TEC-IT TBarCode OCX ActiveX control (TBarCode7.ocx) 7.0.2.3524 allows remote attackers to overwrite arbitrary files via the SaveImage method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3233 affects the TEC-IT TBarCode OCX ActiveX control version 7.0.2.3524 which is commonly used for barcode generation within Windows environments. This ActiveX control is typically integrated into web applications and desktop software to provide barcode creation capabilities, making it a potentially widely exposed component in enterprise and corporate networks. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the SaveImage method of the TBarCode7.ocx control, creating a path traversal condition that allows unauthorized file operations.
The technical flaw manifests through the SaveImage method which fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters before using them to determine file paths for saving barcode images. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input that includes directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ which can cause the control to write files to arbitrary locations on the target system. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to overwrite existing files or create new files in directories where the web server or application process has write permissions, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites as it provides attackers with a means to escalate privileges and gain persistent access to affected systems. When the TBarCode OCX control is used in web applications, the vulnerability can be exploited through web browsers without requiring any additional user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage. The attack surface is further expanded when considering that many organizations deploy ActiveX controls for legitimate business purposes, making the exploitation of such controls a common vector for initial access in targeted attacks. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and follows patterns commonly seen in ActiveX control vulnerabilities that lack proper input validation.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, particularly under the Initial Access and Persistence phases where attackers leverage compromised ActiveX controls to establish footholds within networks. The vulnerability also relates to the broader category of insecure direct object reference issues that can be exploited to manipulate file operations. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including removing or disabling the vulnerable ActiveX control from web applications, implementing strict input validation for all user-supplied data, and applying proper access controls to prevent unauthorized file system operations. Additionally, network segmentation and application whitelisting can help reduce the attack surface and limit potential exploitation of such vulnerabilities in environments where the control must remain operational for legitimate business functions.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates the ongoing risks associated with legacy ActiveX controls in modern enterprise environments where security controls may not have been properly updated or maintained. This particular vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of regular security assessments and the need to phase out outdated components that no longer receive security updates or support from their vendors. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training for developers to prevent similar issues in custom applications and ensure proper input validation is implemented in all file operation functions.