CVE-2007-5603 in SSL VPN
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the SonicWall SSL-VPN NetExtender NELaunchCtrl ActiveX control before 2.1.0.51, and 2.5.x before 2.5.0.56, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in the second argument to the AddRouteEntry method.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5603 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting the SonicWall SSL-VPN NetExtender NELaunchCtrl ActiveX control. This flaw exists in specific versions of the software, namely before 2.1.0.51 and before 2.5.0.56, creating a persistent security risk for organizations utilizing SonicWall SSL-VPN solutions. The vulnerability specifically targets the AddRouteEntry method within the ActiveX control, which processes user input through its second argument. This method lacks proper input validation and bounds checking, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory on the stack.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate parameter validation within the ActiveX control's programming interface. When the AddRouteEntry method receives a malformed string input in its second parameter, the control fails to verify the string length before copying it into a fixed-size buffer allocated on the stack. This classic buffer overflow scenario enables an attacker to craft a specially formatted string that exceeds the buffer's capacity, causing adjacent memory locations to be overwritten with malicious data. The stack-based nature of the vulnerability means that the return addresses and other critical execution context information stored on the call stack can be modified, potentially allowing remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation or denial of service scenarios. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application, typically the Internet Explorer browser when the ActiveX control is loaded. This creates a significant threat vector for enterprise networks relying on SonicWall SSL-VPN solutions, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to internal network resources. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require local system access to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in perimeter environments where external network traffic is common. Organizations utilizing affected versions of NetExtender are vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks, remote command execution, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as mapping to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental software security weakness in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, as the vulnerability is typically exploited through web-based attack vectors that leverage ActiveX controls loaded in browsers. Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems to version 2.1.0.51 or 2.5.0.56, respectively, while implementing network segmentation to limit exposure. Additionally, organizations should consider disabling ActiveX controls in browser environments where possible, implementing application whitelisting policies, and monitoring network traffic for suspicious patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and secure coding practices in ActiveX and COM-based applications, particularly in enterprise security solutions that handle sensitive network traffic.