CVE-2009-0813 in TeamLinks
Summary
by MITRE
Insecure method vulnerability in the ImeraIEPlugin ActiveX control (ImeraIEPlugin.dll 1.0.2.54) in Imera TeamLinks Client allows remote attackers to force the download and execution of arbitrary URLs via modified DownloadProtocol, DownloadHost, DownloadPort, and DownloadURI parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2024
The CVE-2009-0813 vulnerability represents a critical insecure method flaw within the ImeraIEPlugin ActiveX control version 1.0.2.54, which is part of the Imera TeamLinks Client software suite. This vulnerability exists in the ActiveX control's implementation and allows remote attackers to manipulate the download and execution process of arbitrary files through carefully crafted parameters. The flaw specifically affects the DownloadProtocol, DownloadHost, DownloadPort, and DownloadURI parameters, which are used to construct and execute network requests. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and parameter sanitization within the ActiveX control's method implementations, creating a path for attackers to inject malicious URLs and execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-20 category, which encompasses weaknesses related to improper input validation, and represents a classic example of a remote code execution vulnerability through insecure ActiveX control usage.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious parameters that are passed to the vulnerable ActiveX control methods. The DownloadProtocol parameter can be modified to specify malicious protocols such as http, https, or file protocols, while DownloadHost can be manipulated to point to attacker-controlled servers. The DownloadPort parameter allows attackers to specify custom ports for malicious connections, and DownloadURI can be altered to direct the control to download files from arbitrary locations. When these parameters are processed by the vulnerable control, they bypass normal security checks and directly trigger the download and execution of malicious payloads. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because ActiveX controls run with the privileges of the currently logged-in user, and in many cases with elevated privileges when running in Internet Explorer. This attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.002, which covers the exploitation of ActiveX controls for code execution, and T1059.007, which involves the use of scripting languages through browser-based attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-0813 is severe and multifaceted, affecting organizations that have the Imera TeamLinks Client installed on their systems. When exploited, this vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, or deploy additional malware. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where users may have elevated privileges, as the attack can result in privilege escalation and lateral movement within the network. Organizations using older versions of the Imera TeamLinks Client are at risk of being targeted by attackers who can leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to their systems. The vulnerability also impacts the overall security posture of affected organizations, as it represents a failure in software security design and implementation that could indicate other potential weaknesses in the same software suite or similar ActiveX controls. Additionally, the exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to compliance violations and regulatory penalties, as it represents a significant security gap in the organization's attack surface.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0813 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution is to uninstall the vulnerable Imera TeamLinks Client software or update to a patched version that properly validates and sanitizes input parameters. Organizations should also implement browser security measures such as disabling ActiveX controls in Internet Explorer or configuring security zones to restrict ActiveX behavior. Network-level mitigations include implementing firewall rules to block connections to known malicious domains and monitoring network traffic for suspicious patterns related to the vulnerable parameters. Security teams should also deploy application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of unsigned or untrusted ActiveX controls. From a defensive perspective, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially vulnerable ActiveX controls and ensure proper input validation is implemented in all software components. The remediation process should also include user education about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping software updated. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to help users recognize and avoid potential attack vectors that leverage ActiveX controls and similar browser-based vulnerabilities.