CVE-2008-3480 in Web Print Object
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the Anzio Web Print Object (WePO) ActiveX control 3.2.19 and 3.2.24, as used in Anzio Print Wizard, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long mainurl parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3480 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Anzio Web Print Object WePO ActiveX control version 3.2.19 and 3.2.24. This vulnerability exists within the Anzio Print Wizard software suite, which is commonly deployed in enterprise environments for managing print operations and document handling. The flaw specifically manifests in the processing of the mainurl parameter, which is utilized to specify the target URL for print operations. When an attacker crafts a maliciously long mainurl parameter, the control fails to properly validate input length, leading to a buffer overflow condition that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code on the affected system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw occurs because the ActiveX control does not implement proper input validation for the mainurl parameter, allowing an attacker to supply data exceeding the allocated buffer space. This overflow can corrupt the stack frame, potentially overwriting return addresses and function pointers, enabling attackers to redirect execution flow and inject malicious code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the context of a web browser environment where ActiveX controls are executed, making it a prime target for drive-by attack scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential persistence mechanisms and privilege escalation opportunities within the targeted environment. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify system configurations, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive data. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage, making it susceptible to automated exploitation. The vulnerability affects systems where the Anzio Print Wizard software is installed and where ActiveX controls are enabled, which typically includes Windows environments with Internet Explorer browsers. This makes the attack surface particularly broad, as many enterprise networks continue to support legacy ActiveX functionality for compatibility reasons.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3480 should focus on immediate remediation and long-term security hardening. Organizations must first ensure that affected versions of the Anzio Print Wizard software are updated to patched versions that address the buffer overflow vulnerability. System administrators should also implement browser security policies that disable ActiveX controls or restrict their execution to trusted sites only. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by isolating systems that require the vulnerable software. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies can prevent unauthorized ActiveX controls from executing, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify other potentially vulnerable components within the software ecosystem. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in preventing buffer overflow attacks, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through ActiveX controls and T1203 for exploitation of software vulnerabilities.