CVE-2007-3982 in ActiveReports
Summary
by MITRE
Absolute path traversal vulnerability in the Data Dynamics ActiveReport (ActiveReports) ActiveX control in actrpt2.dll 2.5 and earlier allows remote attackers to create or overwrite arbitrary files via a full pathname in the first argument to the SaveLayout method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/27/2024
The CVE-2007-3982 vulnerability represents a critical absolute path traversal flaw within the Data Dynamics ActiveReport ActiveX control, specifically affecting versions 2.5 and earlier of the actrpt2.dll component. This vulnerability exists within the SaveLayout method of the ActiveX control, which accepts a full pathname as its first argument without proper validation or sanitization. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the file system by specifying absolute paths that can result in the creation or overwriting of arbitrary files on the target system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper path handling within the ActiveX control implementation, which fails to restrict user-supplied paths to legitimate file operations.
This vulnerability operates under the broader context of path traversal attacks that exploit improper input validation in applications handling file operations. The flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The vulnerability can be exploited through web-based attack vectors where ActiveX controls are enabled, particularly in Internet Explorer environments where ActiveX controls are executed with the privileges of the user. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to place malicious files in critical system locations, potentially leading to privilege escalation or persistent backdoor installations.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-3982 extends beyond simple file manipulation, as it provides attackers with the capability to overwrite critical system files or inject malicious code into the application's file structure. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability can enable attackers to compromise the integrity of the affected system by replacing legitimate executable files with malicious counterparts, or to create persistent access mechanisms through the placement of backdoor files. The vulnerability affects systems where ActiveReports ActiveX controls are deployed, particularly in enterprise environments where these controls might be used for reporting applications. The attack requires minimal privileges to execute, as the ActiveX control operates within the user context, making it particularly dangerous in environments with elevated user permissions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-3982 should focus on immediate patching of the affected ActiveX control to version 2.6 or later, which includes proper input validation for path parameters. Organizations should disable ActiveX controls in web browsers where they are not strictly required, and implement proper input validation and sanitization for any file operations within applications. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can help reduce the attack surface by limiting access to systems hosting vulnerable ActiveX controls. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through ActiveX components and T1566 for initial access via malicious web content. System administrators should monitor for suspicious file creation or modification patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and implement security controls that prevent arbitrary file system access through web applications. Regular vulnerability assessments and security updates remain crucial for maintaining protection against similar path traversal vulnerabilities in legacy software components.