CVE-2007-6654 in Update Service
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in a certain ActiveX control in Macrovision InstallShield Update Service Web Agent 5.1.100.47363 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in the ProductCode argument (second argument) to the DownloadAndExecute method, a different vulnerability than CVE-2007-0321, CVE-2007-2419, and CVE-2007-5660.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-6654 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Macrovision InstallShield Update Service Web Agent version 5.1.100.47363 ActiveX control. This security weakness specifically manifests in the DownloadAndExecute method where the second argument named ProductCode parameter fails to properly validate input length, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability exists within the ActiveX control architecture which is commonly used for software installation and update processes, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through web-based attacks targeting vulnerable systems.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs when an attacker supplies an excessively long string value to the ProductCode argument of the DownloadAndExecute method. This excessive input length exceeds the allocated buffer space within the ActiveX control's memory allocation, causing memory corruption that can be manipulated to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and executable code segments. The flaw operates under the CWE-121 CWE category which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite program execution flow and inject malicious payloads. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in ActiveX contexts as it can be triggered through web browsers when visiting compromised websites or clicking malicious links that load the vulnerable control.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-6654 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. When successfully exploited, attackers can gain full control over affected systems, install backdoors, modify system files, and potentially establish persistent access through the executed malicious code. The vulnerability affects systems running the specific version of InstallShield Update Service Web Agent and can be exploited through various attack vectors including web browser exploitation, malicious websites, and potentially through social engineering techniques that trick users into interacting with compromised content. This vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's T1190 technique for Exploit Public-Facing Application, specifically targeting ActiveX controls and web agents that are commonly deployed in enterprise environments for software distribution and update management.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the InstallShield Update Service Web Agent to a version that properly validates input parameters and implements proper buffer size checking mechanisms. Organizations should also implement network-based controls such as disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers where possible, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious input patterns, and conducting comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify systems running the vulnerable version. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, including unusual network connections or file modifications. The remediation process should also include updating system configurations to disable unnecessary ActiveX controls and implementing proper input validation controls that prevent buffer overflow conditions in similar software components, aligning with industry best practices for secure coding standards and defensive programming techniques.