CVE-2008-1647 in ChilkatHttp ActiveX
Summary
by MITRE
The ChilkatHttp.ChilkatHttp.1 and ChilkatHttp.ChilkatHttpRequest.1 ActiveX controls in ChilkatHttp.dll 2.4.0.0, 2.3.0.0, and earlier in ChilkatHttp ActiveX expose the unsafe SaveLastError method, which allows remote attackers to overwrite arbitrary files. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1647 resides within the ChilkatHttp ActiveX controls, specifically affecting versions 2.4.0.0 and 2.3.0.0 of the ChilkatHttp.dll component. This issue represents a critical file overwriting flaw that manifests through the exposure of an unsafe SaveLastError method within the ActiveX controls. The vulnerability affects both the ChilkatHttp.ChilkatHttp.1 and ChilkatHttp.ChilkatHttpRequest.1 control interfaces, creating a significant attack surface for remote threat actors. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and improper file handling mechanisms within the ActiveX component's implementation, allowing malicious actors to leverage the SaveLastError method for unauthorized file operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the unsafe SaveLastError method which does not properly validate file paths or implement proper access controls. When an attacker can manipulate the method parameters, they can specify arbitrary file paths that the ActiveX control will attempt to overwrite, potentially leading to critical system compromise. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-73, which covers external control of filename or path. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to overwrite files in system directories with elevated privileges, potentially leading to persistent backdoors or system corruption. The ActiveX controls operate with the privileges of the user context in which they are executed, making this a particularly severe issue when executed in administrative contexts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it provides attackers with a mechanism to escalate privileges and maintain persistent access to compromised systems. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or even executable components within the application's installation directory. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through web-based interfaces or any method that allows execution of ActiveX controls in vulnerable environments. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through ActiveX components and T1566 for initial access via malicious web content. The exploitability is enhanced by the fact that ActiveX controls are often enabled by default in Internet Explorer environments, making the attack surface particularly broad.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1647 require immediate remediation through patching the ChilkatHttp ActiveX components to versions that properly validate file paths and implement secure file handling practices. Organizations should disable ActiveX controls in web browsers where possible, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted content. The implementation of proper input validation and path sanitization within the ActiveX control's SaveLastError method would prevent attackers from specifying arbitrary file paths. Additionally, system administrators should implement strict file permission controls and monitor for unauthorized file modifications in system directories. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional defense-in-depth measures to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability in environments where patching is not immediately possible. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices in ActiveX components and highlights the risks associated with exposing unsafe methods in browser-based applications.