CVE-2007-6493 in iMesh
Summary
by MITRE
The IMWeb.IMWebControl.1 ActiveX control in IMWeb.dll 7.0.0.x, and possibly IMWebControl.dll, in iMesh 7.1.0.x and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a certain argument to the SetHandler method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-6493 represents a critical activeX control flaw within the iMesh instant messaging application version 7.1.0.x and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the IMWeb.IMWebControl.1 ActiveX control component that is embedded within the IMWeb.dll file version 7.0.0.x, with potential impacts extending to IMWebControl.dll as well. The flaw manifests through improper input validation within the SetHandler method of the ActiveX control, creating a dangerous execution path that can be exploited by remote attackers. The vulnerability falls under the category of improper input validation as defined by CWE-20, which is a fundamental weakness in software design that allows malicious inputs to bypass security checks and execute unintended operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a specially crafted argument for the SetHandler method within the ActiveX control. This method call, when processed with malicious input, allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable iMesh application. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages the inherent trust that web browsers place in ActiveX controls, allowing remote code execution without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website or opening a specially crafted email attachment. The vulnerability creates a direct pathway for privilege escalation and system compromise, as the execution context typically operates with the same privileges as the user who launched the iMesh application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise and potential data exfiltration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal user credentials, access sensitive files, and establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects a wide range of users who have iMesh installed, particularly those running older versions of the software, making it a significant threat in enterprise environments where legacy applications may not be properly maintained. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables attackers to execute malicious code through legitimate application interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6493 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the vendor. Organizations must ensure that all instances of iMesh 7.1.0.x and earlier versions are updated to the latest secure versions that contain proper input validation and sanitization. Additionally, security administrators should implement browser security policies that restrict ActiveX control loading, disable ActiveX controls in web browsers, and maintain strict software inventory controls to prevent installation of vulnerable versions. Network-based mitigations such as firewall rules that block access to iMesh-related services and endpoint protection solutions that monitor for suspicious ActiveX behavior can provide additional layers of defense. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of input validation and secure coding practices, particularly when developing components that interact with external inputs through interfaces such as ActiveX controls. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially vulnerable ActiveX controls and ensure that all software components undergo rigorous security testing before deployment in production environments.