CVE-2007-4474 in Domino Web Access
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in the IBM Lotus Domino Web Access ActiveX control, as provided by inotes6.dll, inotes6w.dll, dwa7.dll, and dwa7w.dll, in Domino 6.x and 7.x allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code, as demonstrated by an overflow from a long General_ServerName property value when calling the InstallBrowserHelperDll function in the Upload Module in the dwa7.dwa7.1 control in dwa7w.dll 7.0.34.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4474 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting IBM Lotus Domino Web Access ActiveX controls. This flaw exists within multiple dynamic link libraries including inotes6.dll, inotes6w.dll, dwa7.dll, and dwa7w.dll that are part of Domino 6.x and 7.x software versions. The vulnerability specifically manifests when processing the General_ServerName property value through the InstallBrowserHelperDll function within the Upload Module of the dwa7.dwa7.1 control located in dwa7w.dll version 7.0.34.1. This represents a classic buffer overflow condition where insufficient input validation allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory boundaries on the stack, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which occurs when a program writes data beyond the boundaries of a fixed-length buffer allocated on the stack. The attack vector leverages the ActiveX control architecture where web-based inputs are processed through the vulnerable DLL components. When a maliciously crafted General_ServerName property value exceeds the buffer capacity, it overflows into adjacent stack memory locations, potentially overwriting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures. This overflow can be exploited to redirect program execution flow to attacker-controlled code, making it a severe remote code execution vulnerability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation as it affects organizations relying on IBM Lotus Domino servers for email and collaboration services. Attackers can remotely execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems without requiring authentication, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Domino software, creating widespread exposure across enterprise environments that may have legacy systems running outdated versions. The ActiveX control nature means that exploitation can occur through web browsers when users visit malicious websites or open compromised email attachments containing specially crafted content.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of affected Domino versions to address the buffer overflow conditions in the vulnerable DLL components. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of Domino servers to untrusted networks and users. Browser security configurations should be enhanced through ActiveX control restrictions and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious ActiveX components. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and memory safety practices as outlined in the software security principles of the CWE taxonomy and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage. System administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive backup and recovery procedures to address potential compromise scenarios.