CVE-2008-4652 in PowerTCP FTP for ActiveX
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the ActiveX control (DartFtp.dll) in Dart Communications PowerTCP FTP for ActiveX 2.0.2 0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long SecretKey property.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4652 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the DartFtp.dll ActiveX control component of Dart Communications PowerTCP FTP for ActiveX version 2.0.2. This vulnerability resides in the handling of the SecretKey property, which serves as a parameter for secure FTP operations. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the ActiveX control implementation, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can exceed the allocated buffer space. When an attacker provides an excessively long SecretKey value, the control fails to properly validate the input length before copying it into a fixed-size buffer, resulting in memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory regions. The vulnerability specifically manifests when Internet Explorer or other applications hosting the ActiveX control process the malicious SecretKey input, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution at the privileges of the compromised application. Attackers can leverage this weakness to inject and execute malicious code within the context of the victim's browser session, effectively gaining unauthorized access to the system. The attack vector requires remote exploitation through web-based delivery mechanisms, typically involving malicious websites or email attachments that trigger the vulnerable ActiveX control.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-4652 extends beyond simple code execution, creating potential for complete system compromise and data exfiltration. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability enables attackers to bypass security controls and execute arbitrary commands on vulnerable systems, potentially leading to persistent access through backdoor installation or privilege escalation. The vulnerability affects systems running the specific version of PowerTCP FTP for ActiveX, particularly those with ActiveX support enabled in web browsers. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are frequently deployed for legacy application compatibility, as these systems often lack robust security controls and may have outdated software versions. The vulnerability also relates to ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in software components to gain execution privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate remediation through software updates from Dart Communications, as the vendor would have released patches addressing the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all vulnerable ActiveX controls are updated promptly. Browser security configurations should include disabling ActiveX controls or restricting their execution to trusted sites only, implementing content security policies, and utilizing sandboxing mechanisms to limit potential damage from exploitation attempts. Network-level defenses such as intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts by monitoring for suspicious ActiveX control interactions. Additionally, security awareness training should emphasize the dangers of visiting untrusted websites or opening suspicious email attachments that may trigger ActiveX control loading. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, particularly when dealing with legacy ActiveX components that may not adhere to modern security standards and could pose significant risks in contemporary computing environments.