CVE-2008-6638 in Http File Upload Activex Control
Summary
by MITRE
Insecure method vulnerability in the Versalsoft HTTP Image Uploader ActiveX control (UUploaderSvrD.dll 6.0.0.35) allows remote attackers to delete arbitrary files via the RemoveFileOrDir method.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/24/2025
The CVE-2008-6638 vulnerability represents a critical insecure method flaw within the Versalsoft HTTP Image Uploader ActiveX control, specifically affecting version 6.0.0.35 of the UUploaderSvrD.dll component. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and access control mechanisms within the RemoveFileOrDir method, which exposes the control to unauthorized file deletion operations. The ActiveX control, designed for web-based image uploading and management, inadvertently provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary file deletion commands on systems where the control is installed, creating a significant security risk for web applications that utilize this component.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability lies in the lack of proper parameter validation within the RemoveFileOrDir method, which accepts file paths and directory names without adequate sanitization or access control checks. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input that specifies target file paths, allowing them to delete files from the system regardless of their permissions or the intended scope of the application. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, known as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')", where the vulnerability enables attackers to traverse file system boundaries and execute destructive operations. The insecure method design violates fundamental security principles by not implementing proper input validation, authentication checks, or authorization controls that would normally prevent such arbitrary file manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion, as it creates a potential pathway for more severe attacks including system compromise, data destruction, and service disruption. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to target critical system files, application configuration files, or user data, potentially leading to complete system compromise or denial of service conditions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web environments where ActiveX controls are automatically executed, as it allows attackers to exploit the vulnerability without requiring local system access or user interaction. This makes it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and increases the attack surface for organizations using the affected software components.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6638 should focus on immediate removal or disabling of the vulnerable ActiveX control from affected systems, as the vulnerability cannot be effectively patched due to the age of the component. Organizations should implement strict browser security policies that disable ActiveX controls or restrict their execution to trusted domains only. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to prevent unnecessary exposure of systems hosting vulnerable components. Additionally, the vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1485 "Data Destruction", highlighting the need for comprehensive application security testing and vulnerability management programs. Security teams should conduct thorough inventory assessments to identify all instances of the affected control and implement proper access controls to prevent unauthorized file system operations. The vulnerability also emphasizes the importance of avoiding deprecated ActiveX technologies in modern web applications and transitioning to more secure, standards-based alternatives that do not expose similar attack vectors.