CVE-2007-4802 in GlobalLink
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple heap-based buffer overflows in GlobalLink 2.7.0.8 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) a long eighth argument to the SetInfo method in a certain ActiveX control in glItemCom.dll or (2) a long second argument to the SetClientInfo method in a certain ActiveX control in glitemflat.dll.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/06/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4802 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in GlobalLink 2.7.0.8 software, specifically affecting ActiveX controls that are commonly used in Windows environments. This issue stems from improper input validation within two distinct ActiveX control methods, creating exploitable conditions that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain unauthorized code execution capabilities. The vulnerability affects two separate components: glItemCom.dll and glitemflat.dll, both of which are part of the GlobalLink software suite designed for enterprise data integration and communication.
The technical flaw manifests through two specific attack vectors that exploit heap memory corruption. The first vector involves passing an excessively long eighth argument to the SetInfo method within the glItemCom.dll ActiveX control, while the second vector targets the SetClientInfo method in glitemflat.dll through an overly long second argument. Both scenarios result in memory corruption that can be manipulated to overwrite adjacent heap memory locations, potentially allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite heap memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables remote code execution without requiring local system access, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are often deployed for business applications. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through web browsers or other applications that load the affected ActiveX controls, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data theft, or deployment of additional malware. The vulnerability affects systems running GlobalLink 2.7.0.8 and is particularly concerning because ActiveX controls are frequently used in corporate networks for integration with legacy systems and enterprise applications, providing attackers with multiple potential entry points.
From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves exploiting software vulnerabilities to gain code execution. The attack surface is expanded by the fact that these ActiveX controls can be loaded through various web-based interfaces, making exploitation more accessible to threat actors. Organizations using GlobalLink software should prioritize immediate remediation through vendor-provided patches or updates, as the vulnerability exists in a widely deployed enterprise integration platform. Network segmentation and browser security controls should be implemented to limit exposure, while regular security assessments should verify that no outdated ActiveX components remain in use. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation in COM components and ActiveX controls, as proper bounds checking could prevent the memory corruption that enables exploitation. Organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of known vulnerable ActiveX controls until proper patches are deployed.