CVE-2008-5260 in AXIS Camera Control
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the CamImage.CamImage.1 ActiveX control in AxisCamControl.ocx in AXIS Camera Control 2.40.0.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long image_pan_tilt property value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-5260 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the Axis Camera Control ActiveX component, specifically affecting the CamImage.CamImage.1 control in AXIS Camera Control version 2.40.0.0. This flaw exists within the AxisCamControl.ocx library and manifests when processing the image_pan_tilt property value, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited remotely to achieve arbitrary code execution on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability resides in the improper handling of user-supplied input within the ActiveX control's memory management, which fails to validate the length of the image_pan_tilt parameter before attempting to store it in heap memory.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from the ActiveX control's inadequate bounds checking mechanism when processing the image_pan_tilt property. When an attacker supplies a maliciously crafted value that exceeds the allocated buffer size, the control writes beyond the intended memory boundaries, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including function pointers, return addresses, or other critical control data structures. This memory corruption can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability falls under CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow, which is categorized as a memory safety issue that enables code execution through improper memory management.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly beyond simple denial of service, as it provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on systems with the vulnerable ActiveX control installed. This creates a substantial risk for networked environments where Axis cameras are deployed, particularly in corporate networks, industrial control systems, or any infrastructure where camera surveillance is integrated with other systems. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through web browsers or other applications that load the malicious ActiveX control, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or lateral movement within the network. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no local privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage, making it highly suitable for automated exploitation campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5260 should include immediate patching of the Axis Camera Control software to the latest version that addresses this vulnerability, as well as implementing browser security measures such as disabling ActiveX controls or restricting their execution to trusted sites only. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and firewall rules to limit access to camera control interfaces, while monitoring for suspicious network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and disabling unnecessary ActiveX controls can significantly reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers leverage vulnerable web applications or browser components to gain initial access to target systems. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other ActiveX controls and legacy software components that may be present in the enterprise environment.