CVE-2007-5608 in Instant Support
Summary
by MITRE
The DownloadFile function in the HPISDataManagerLib.Datamgr ActiveX control in HPISDataManager.dll in HP Instant Support before 1.0.0.24 allows remote attackers to force a download of an arbitrary file onto a client machine via a URL in the first argument and a destination filename in the second argument, a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-0952 and CVE-2008-0953.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2019
The CVE-2007-5608 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in HP Instant Support's HPISDataManagerLib.Datamgr ActiveX control, specifically within the DownloadFile function of the HPISDataManager.dll component. This vulnerability exists in versions of HP Instant Support prior to 1.0.0.24 and demonstrates a classic example of insecure ActiveX control implementation that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary file download operations on vulnerable client systems. The flaw operates through a straightforward yet dangerous mechanism where an attacker can manipulate the function's parameters to force downloads of malicious files to predetermined locations on the target machine. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the trust model inherent in ActiveX controls, which are typically executed with elevated privileges when properly configured in web browsers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the DownloadFile function of the ActiveX control. When attackers provide a malicious URL as the first argument and specify a destination filename as the second argument, the control fails to properly sanitize or validate these inputs before executing the download operation. This lack of input validation creates a path for attackers to manipulate the download destination, potentially allowing them to write files to sensitive system locations or overwrite existing critical files. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be triggered through web-based attacks, making it particularly dangerous in environments where ActiveX controls are enabled and trusted by users. This flaw is categorized under CWE-20, which represents "Improper Input Validation," and specifically relates to CWE-255, "Credentials Management Errors," as the vulnerability can be exploited to place malicious files in locations where they might execute automatically.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file downloads, as it creates opportunities for more sophisticated attack vectors including privilege escalation, persistent malware deployment, and system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to download malware directly to the victim's machine, potentially bypassing traditional security controls that might otherwise prevent such downloads. The ability to specify arbitrary destination filenames allows attackers to target specific system locations, including the Windows system directory, startup folders, or other locations where downloaded files might execute automatically. This vulnerability also demonstrates the broader risk associated with ActiveX controls in enterprise environments, where users may unknowingly execute malicious code through trusted applications. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1195.002 "Phishing for Information" and T1059.001 "Command and Scripting Interpreter" as it enables attackers to deliver payloads and potentially execute malicious code through compromised ActiveX controls. The vulnerability also relates to T1566.001 "Phishing" as it can be exploited through web-based social engineering campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5608 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability. The primary and most effective solution is to update HP Instant Support to version 1.0.0.24 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization for the DownloadFile function. Organizations should also implement browser security policies that restrict or disable ActiveX controls, particularly in environments where they are not essential for business operations. Network-level mitigations include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious URL patterns and file download operations that attempt to write to system directories. Security administrators should also monitor for unusual file download patterns and implement endpoint detection and response capabilities to identify when malicious files are being placed on systems. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of ActiveX controls and the importance of keeping software updated remains critical. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and the dangers of trusting user-supplied data in security-critical functions, reinforcing principles from the OWASP Top 10 and NIST cybersecurity frameworks that emphasize the need for robust input validation and secure coding practices in all application components.