CVE-2008-4830 in GUI
Summary
by MITRE
Insecure method vulnerability in the KWEdit ActiveX control in SAP GUI 6.40 Patch 29 (KWEDIT.DLL 6400.1.1.41) and 7.10 Patch 5 (KWEDIT.DLL 7100.1.1.43) allows remote attackers to (1) overwrite arbitrary files via the SaveDocumentAs method or (2) read or execute arbitrary files via the OpenDocument method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2025
The CVE-2008-4830 vulnerability represents a critical insecure method implementation within the KWEdit ActiveX control embedded in SAP GUI versions 6.40 Patch 29 and 7.10 Patch 5. This vulnerability manifests through two distinct attack vectors that exploit the control's improper handling of file operations, creating significant security risks for enterprise environments that rely on SAP systems. The vulnerability specifically affects KWEDIT.DLL versions 6400.1.1.41 and 7100.1.1.43, which are components of SAP's graphical user interface for enterprise resource planning applications.
The technical flaw lies in the insecure implementation of two core methods within the KWEdit ActiveX control: SaveDocumentAs and OpenDocument. The SaveDocumentAs method allows remote attackers to overwrite arbitrary files on the target system by manipulating file paths and permissions, while the OpenDocument method enables attackers to read or execute arbitrary files through improper input validation and path resolution mechanisms. These methods lack proper input sanitization and access control checks, enabling attackers to bypass normal file system restrictions and potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the compromised user. The vulnerability stems from inadequate boundary checking and insufficient validation of user-supplied parameters, creating a direct path for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file system compromise, as it enables attackers to manipulate critical business data and potentially establish persistent access within enterprise networks. Attackers can leverage the SaveDocumentAs method to overwrite system files, configuration files, or even executable components, leading to system instability or complete system compromise. The OpenDocument method provides attackers with the capability to read sensitive data, execute malicious payloads, or gain insights into the internal workings of SAP systems. This vulnerability directly violates security principles outlined in CWE-242, which addresses the use of dangerous functions that can lead to arbitrary code execution, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and script injection. Organizations using affected SAP GUI versions face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within their networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4830 should prioritize immediate patching of affected SAP GUI installations to the latest available versions that address the insecure ActiveX control implementations. System administrators must disable or remove the KWEdit ActiveX control from web browsers and client systems where it is not essential for business operations. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of SAP systems to untrusted networks. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected ActiveX controls and ensure that proper input validation and access control mechanisms are in place. The remediation process must include monitoring for suspicious file operations and implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized code. Security teams should also review and update their incident response procedures to address potential exploitation of this vulnerability, as it provides attackers with direct access to file system operations that can lead to comprehensive system compromise.