CVE-2008-4750 in VImp X
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the VImpX.VImpAX ActiveX control (VImpX.ocx) 4.8.8.0 in DB Software Laboratory VImp X, possibly 4.7.7, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long LogFile property.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4750 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the VImpX.VImpAX ActiveX control version 4.8.8.0 produced by DB Software Laboratory. This flaw exists in the VImpX.ocx component and potentially affects version 4.7.7 as well, creating a significant security risk for systems that utilize this ActiveX control. The vulnerability specifically manifests when processing the LogFile property, which serves as an entry point for malicious input that can trigger the buffer overflow condition. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the control's implementation, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory on the stack through carefully crafted input data.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the LogFile property of the VImpX.VImpAX ActiveX control. When a remote attacker provides a specially crafted string that exceeds the allocated buffer size for the LogFile property, the overflow corrupts the stack memory structure. This condition enables attackers to overwrite return addresses, function pointers, and other critical stack data, potentially allowing them to redirect execution flow to malicious code injected into the vulnerable application. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which represents one of the most common and dangerous types of buffer overflow conditions in software systems. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be executed remotely without requiring local system access, making it an attractive target for widespread exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Systems running vulnerable versions of the VImpX control are at risk of being exploited by attackers who can leverage this condition to gain arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable application. This typically means that if an attacker can convince a user to visit a malicious webpage or open a specially crafted document that triggers the vulnerable ActiveX control, they can potentially execute malicious payloads and establish persistent access to the target system. The vulnerability affects Windows operating systems where the ActiveX control is installed and registered, creating a wide attack surface across enterprise networks where such controls might be deployed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4750 should focus on immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary recommendation involves updating to a patched version of the VImpX software that addresses the buffer overflow condition in the VImpX.ocx control. Organizations should also implement browser security controls such as disabling ActiveX controls or implementing security zones that restrict ActiveX behavior. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 which covers exploitation of remote services and T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and employing sandboxing techniques can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. System administrators should conduct thorough inventory assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable versions and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in the future. Network segmentation and monitoring can provide early detection of exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments help identify other potential attack vectors that may be present in legacy ActiveX-based applications.