CVE-2008-0443 in FileUploader.dll
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the FileUploader.FUploadCtl.1 ActiveX control in FileUploader.dll 2.0.0.2 in Lycos FileUploader Module allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long HandwriterFilename property value. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-0443 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the FileUploader.FUploadCtl.1 ActiveX control component of Lycos FileUploader Module version 2.0.0.2. This flaw exists in the FileUploader.dll library and specifically targets the HandwriterFilename property, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited by remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution capabilities. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the ActiveX control's implementation, where user-supplied data is directly copied into insufficiently sized heap buffers without proper bounds checking mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a maliciously long HandwriterFilename property value that exceeds the allocated buffer space within the ActiveX control's memory structure. This buffer overflow condition allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting program execution flow and enabling code injection attacks. The heap-based nature of the vulnerability means that the overflow affects dynamically allocated memory segments, making exploitation more complex but also more dangerous as it can lead to unpredictable behavior and system compromise. According to CWE classification, this represents a CWE-121: Stack-based Buffer Overflow, though the heap-based variant presents similar exploitation vectors and security implications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential access to systems running vulnerable ActiveX controls. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers can leverage this vulnerability through web browsers or other applications that load the malicious ActiveX control without requiring local system access. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are commonly used for file upload functionalities and document processing. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that many users may unknowingly encounter this vulnerability through web-based file upload interfaces that utilize the Lycos FileUploader Module.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0443 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by Lycos or the vendor. Organizations should implement browser security measures such as disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers or configuring security zones to restrict ActiveX control loading from untrusted sources. The implementation of proper input validation and bounds checking within application code can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1203: Exploitation for Client Execution. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules can be configured to restrict access to vulnerable systems, while endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor for suspicious ActiveX control behavior and potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for outdated ActiveX controls to prevent similar issues from persisting in organizational environments.