CVE-2007-3883 in ActiveBar
Summary
by MITRE
The Data Dynamics ActiveBar ActiveX control (actbar3.ocx) 3.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to create or overwrite files via a full pathname in (1) the second argument to the Save method, or the first argument to the (2) SaveLayoutChanges or (3) SaveMenuUsageData method.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3883 resides within the Data Dynamics ActiveBar ActiveX control version 3.2 and earlier, representing a critical file system manipulation flaw that enables remote attackers to execute unauthorized file operations on affected systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the actbar3.ocx component and manifests through three distinct method calls that accept user-supplied path parameters, creating opportunities for malicious file creation or overwrites. The flaw exists in the control's implementation of file handling operations where proper input validation and path sanitization mechanisms are absent or insufficient.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the ActiveX control's failure to properly validate or sanitize file path inputs provided through method arguments. When attackers invoke the Save method with a second argument containing a full pathname, or utilize the SaveLayoutChanges or SaveMenuUsageData methods with their first arguments containing malicious paths, the control processes these inputs without adequate security checks. This lack of input validation creates a path traversal condition where attackers can specify arbitrary file locations on the target system, potentially leading to the creation of new files or overwriting of existing system files. The vulnerability operates at the Windows ActiveX control level, leveraging the trust model inherent in ActiveX components that typically execute with the privileges of the user running the application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file manipulation, as it provides attackers with potential persistence mechanisms and system compromise capabilities. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to overwrite critical system files, inject malicious code into legitimate applications, or create backdoor access points through file creation operations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows for arbitrary file system operations without requiring local system access, making it exploitable through web-based attack vectors where ActiveX controls are loaded. This characteristic aligns with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the 'Execution' and 'Persistence' tactics, where adversaries establish footholds and maintain access through file system manipulation.
The vulnerability's exploitation potential is enhanced by the widespread deployment of ActiveX controls in enterprise environments and the trust relationships these components establish with operating systems. Attackers can craft malicious web pages or documents containing specially crafted ActiveX calls that automatically execute when viewed in Internet Explorer or other applications that load ActiveX controls. The control's behavior of accepting full pathnames without validation creates a direct pathway for attackers to target system directories such as system32, program files, or other critical locations. This vulnerability represents a classic example of improper input validation, which is categorized under CWE-20 in the Common Weakness Enumeration taxonomy, specifically addressing weaknesses related to insufficient input validation and improper handling of path inputs.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected ActiveBar control to version 3.3 or later, which includes proper input validation and path sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted ActiveX controls and consider disabling ActiveX controls entirely in environments where they are not required. Network-based mitigations include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious ActiveX method calls, while endpoint protection solutions should monitor for suspicious file creation or modification patterns. Security administrators should also conduct thorough inventory assessments to identify all systems running affected ActiveX controls and ensure proper access controls are implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly when dealing with file system operations in component-based architectures.