CVE-2008-1282 in BFup
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the BFup ActiveX control (BFup.dll) in B21Soft BFup before 1.0.802.29 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long FilePath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1282 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the BFup ActiveX control component of B21Soft BFup software version 1.0.801.29 and earlier. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the BFup.dll library, which processes user-supplied FilePath parameters without proper bounds checking mechanisms. The ActiveX control architecture inherently introduces significant security risks due to its ability to execute code within the context of the user's browser session, making it a prime target for exploitation by remote attackers. The vulnerability manifests when an attacker crafts a maliciously long FilePath parameter that exceeds the allocated buffer space, causing memory corruption that can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient space is allocated for input data. The BFup.dll ActiveX control fails to validate the length of the FilePath parameter before copying it into a fixed-size buffer, creating a predictable memory corruption scenario. When the input exceeds the buffer boundaries, adjacent memory locations become overwritten, potentially corrupting the stack frame and allowing an attacker to redirect program execution flow. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in ActiveX contexts because the control runs with the same privileges as the user, enabling potential privilege escalation attacks. The attack vector is remote, meaning that exploitation can occur through web-based delivery mechanisms without requiring local access to the target system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the compromised system. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or the installation of persistent backdoors. The ActiveX control environment creates additional attack surface complexity since these components are often installed automatically during web browsing sessions or software installations, making exploitation more likely. Organizations running affected versions of B21Soft BFup are particularly vulnerable because the control may be present on numerous endpoints without proper security controls in place. The vulnerability also demonstrates the inherent risks of legacy ActiveX controls that lack modern security hardening features and input validation mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1282 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates to version 1.0.802.29 or later, which contains the necessary buffer overflow protections. System administrators should also implement security controls such as ActiveX filtering and browser security zones to prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious ActiveX controls. Network-based mitigations including web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can help detect and block malicious FilePath parameter values. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected ActiveX control across their infrastructure and implement proper access controls to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of executing untrusted ActiveX controls and the importance of keeping software updated remains crucial for overall security posture. This vulnerability exemplifies the importance of proper input validation and memory safety practices as outlined in the software security principles and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, emphasizing the need for robust application security controls in web-delivered content.