CVE-2010-0689 in Base System
Summary
by MITRE
The ExecuteExe method in the DVBSExeCall Control ActiveX control 1.0.0.1 in DVBSExeCall.ocx in DATEV Base System (aka Grundpaket Basis) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0689 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the DVBSExeCall ActiveX control component of DATEV Base System, specifically version 1.0.0.1 of the DVBSExeCall.ocx file. This vulnerability exists within the ExecuteExe method of the ActiveX control, which is part of the DATEV Grundpaket Basis software suite used extensively in German accounting and business software environments. The flaw enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on systems running vulnerable versions of this software, creating a significant security risk for organizations that have not updated their systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the ExecuteExe method of the ActiveX control. When the control processes external input through its ExecuteExe method, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the parameters passed to the underlying system execution functions. This lack of input validation creates a classic command injection vulnerability where attacker-controlled data can be interpreted and executed as system commands. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that multiple attack surfaces within the control could potentially be exploited, including web-based attacks through Internet Explorer or other ActiveX-aware browsers that may load and execute the vulnerable control.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to install malware, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or establish persistence mechanisms within the compromised environment. Organizations using DATEV Base System are particularly at risk since this software is widely deployed in business and accounting environments where sensitive financial and personal data is processed. The vulnerability affects systems that have the ActiveX control registered and accessible through web browsers or other applications that load ActiveX components. Given that ActiveX controls are inherently risky due to their ability to execute native code with system privileges, the combination of this flaw with the widespread use of DATEV software creates a substantial attack surface.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the broader ATT&CK framework, particularly under the execution and privilege escalation categories where such ActiveX-based vulnerabilities often fall. The Common Weakness Enumeration classification for this type of vulnerability would typically be CWE-78, which represents improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, or CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers, removing vulnerable ActiveX components from systems, and applying any available patches from DATEV. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and implementing proper security configurations to prevent the execution of untrusted ActiveX controls, as this flaw demonstrates how legacy software components can remain exploitable for years after their initial release.