CVE-2007-4034 in Widgets
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the YDPCTL.YDPControl.1 (aka Yahoo! Installer Plugin for Widgets) ActiveX control before 2007.7.13.3 (20070620) in YDPCTL.dll in Yahoo! Widgets before 4.0.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long argument to the GetComponentVersion method. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4034 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the Yahoo Widgets versions prior to 4.0.5, specifically affecting builds before the 2007.7.13.3 release dated 20070620. The vulnerability manifests through the GetComponentVersion method which fails to properly validate input parameters, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote code execution. The buffer overflow occurs when a maliciously crafted argument exceeding the allocated stack buffer space is passed to this method, causing stack corruption and potentially enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The exploitation of this vulnerability follows the typical attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, as attackers can leverage the overflow to inject and execute malicious code within the context of the vulnerable ActiveX control. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the browser context through ActiveX controls, which typically run with the privileges of the logged-in user, potentially allowing full system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and persistent access. Attackers can exploit this flaw by crafting specially formatted web pages that trigger the vulnerable GetComponentVersion method when the Yahoo Widgets is installed and the affected ActiveX control is registered, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where users may have varying levels of access to web content. The lack of input validation in the method creates a predictable attack surface that can be exploited across multiple platforms where the vulnerable software is deployed. Organizations running affected versions of Yahoo! Widgets are at significant risk of targeted attacks that could lead to data theft, system takeover, or deployment of additional malware.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate deployment of the patched version of Yahoo! Widgets 4.0.5 or later, which addresses the buffer overflow through proper input validation and bounds checking. System administrators should also implement browser security measures including ActiveX control restrictions and browser security zones to limit the exposure of vulnerable components. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping software updated. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper software security practices including input validation, memory safety considerations, and regular security updates. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious ActiveX control usage patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts. The incident underscores the necessity of comprehensive vulnerability management programs and the critical role of timely patch deployment in maintaining system security posture.