CVE-2008-7103 in toolbar
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in an ActiveX control in najdisitoolbar.dll in Najdi.si Toolbar 2.0.4.1 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (browser crash) or execute arbitrary code via a long Document.Location property value.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-7103 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the najdisitoolbar.dll ActiveX control component of the Najdi.si Toolbar version 2.0.4.1. This vulnerability exists in the handling of the Document.Location property, which is a fundamental aspect of web browser automation and navigation within ActiveX environments. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the ActiveX control implementation, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it firmly within the category of CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which occurs when a program writes data to a buffer located on the stack and exceeds the buffer's allocated size. The ActiveX control in question fails to properly validate the length of the Document.Location property value before processing it, allowing attackers to supply input that exceeds the predetermined buffer capacity. This overflow can result in corruption of adjacent stack memory, potentially overwriting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to users of the Najdi.si Toolbar, as it can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious websites, phishing campaigns, or compromised web pages that trigger the vulnerable ActiveX control. The impact of exploitation manifests in two primary forms: denial of service through browser crashes and potential arbitrary code execution on the target system. The latter capability represents a severe security risk as it could enable attackers to gain full control over the affected system, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is particularly concerning given the widespread use of ActiveX controls in Windows environments and the trust model that browsers establish with these components. When a browser loads a webpage containing malicious input to the Document.Location property, the ActiveX control automatically processes this input without adequate safeguards, creating an ideal environment for exploitation. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: Visual Basic, as it leverages browser automation capabilities to execute malicious code through the vulnerable control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-7103 should prioritize immediate removal of the vulnerable Najdi.si Toolbar from affected systems, as this represents the most effective protection against exploitation. System administrators should also implement browser security policies that restrict ActiveX control usage, disable ActiveX controls for untrusted websites, and deploy application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of the vulnerable najdisitoolbar.dll component. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping browser and plugin components updated to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to exploit this specific vulnerability pattern through monitoring of malicious ActiveX control interactions.