CVE-2008-0235 in Vfp Ole Server Activex Control
Summary
by MITRE
The Microsoft VFP_OLE_Server ActiveX control allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by invoking the foxcommand method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0235 resides within the Microsoft Visual FoxPro OLE Server ActiveX control, a component designed to facilitate automation and integration within Microsoft Office environments. This particular ActiveX control exposes a dangerous method named foxcommand which can be invoked remotely, creating a critical security exposure that has been extensively documented in cybersecurity threat assessments. The flaw represents a classic example of unsafe method invocation within ActiveX controls, where user-supplied input is directly processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of the foxcommand method within the VFP_OLE_Server ActiveX control. When an attacker crafts a specially formatted request to invoke this method, the underlying Visual FoxPro engine executes arbitrary commands with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable application. This represents a severe privilege escalation vulnerability that can be exploited through web browsers or other applications that load ActiveX controls, effectively bypassing standard security boundaries and allowing malicious code execution at the system level. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-74 standard for Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, specifically manifesting as an injection flaw that enables arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Organizations running vulnerable versions of Microsoft Office or applications that utilize the Visual FoxPro OLE Server ActiveX control face significant risk of compromise, including data theft, system infiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries leverage vulnerabilities in externally accessible systems to gain initial access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0235 require immediate action through multiple defensive layers to protect against exploitation attempts. Organizations should implement Microsoft security patches and updates as soon as they become available, as the vulnerability has been addressed through official Microsoft security bulletins. Additionally, ActiveX controls should be restricted or disabled in browser environments where possible, and security policies should be configured to prevent loading of untrusted ActiveX components. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional protection by limiting the attack surface and preventing unauthorized code execution. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against legacy vulnerabilities that may persist in enterprise environments.