CVE-2007-3487 in Photo Digital Imaging Activex Control
Summary
by MITRE
Absolute path traversal in a certain ActiveX control in hpqxml.dll 2.0.0.133 in Hewlett-Packard (HP) Photo Digital Imaging allows remote attackers to create or overwrite arbitrary files via the argument to the saveXMLAsFile method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-3487 represents a critical path traversal flaw within Hewlett-Packard's Photo Digital Imaging ActiveX control component. This issue affects the hpqxml.dll library version 2.0.0.133 and specifically targets the saveXMLAsFile method which lacks proper input validation mechanisms. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to manipulate file system operations through crafted arguments that bypass normal security restrictions.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input within the ActiveX control's file handling routines. When the saveXMLAsFile method processes arguments, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the provided file paths, allowing attackers to specify absolute paths that can traverse the file system hierarchy. This weakness falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-22 which specifically addresses path traversal vulnerabilities where improper input validation allows unauthorized access to file system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file creation or modification capabilities. Attackers can leverage this flaw to overwrite critical system files, inject malicious content into existing files, or create new files in sensitive directories. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not require local system access to exploit this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in web-based environments where ActiveX controls are frequently used for multimedia and imaging operations. This vulnerability directly aligns with attack patterns documented in the attack technique T1059 which covers execution through application shimming and component object model interactions.
Security implications of this vulnerability are severe as it can lead to privilege escalation, system compromise, and persistent backdoor installation. The ActiveX control's design allows arbitrary file system manipulation through network-based attacks, potentially enabling attackers to modify system configuration files, install malicious software, or establish persistent access to affected systems. Organizations running vulnerable HP Photo Digital Imaging software are exposed to significant risk, particularly in environments where ActiveX controls are enabled and trusted by default. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security practices in component design and highlights the importance of input validation and proper file system access controls. Mitigation strategies should include disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers, implementing strict network segmentation, and applying vendor-provided patches to address the path traversal vulnerability in hpqxml.dll. Additionally, regular security assessments should focus on identifying and removing outdated ActiveX components that may contain similar vulnerabilities, as this issue represents a common pattern in legacy software components that lack proper security hardening measures.