CVE-2010-1518 in Dldrv2 ActiveX control
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in the SetDLInfo method in the GIGABYTE Dldrv2 ActiveX control 1.4.206.11 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via the item argument.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1518 represents a critical array index error within the GIGABYTE Dldrv2 ActiveX control version 1.4.206.11, specifically affecting the SetDLInfo method. This flaw manifests as a classic buffer overflow condition that occurs when processing the item argument parameter, creating a dangerous exploitation vector for remote attackers. The ActiveX control is commonly used in system management and device driver installation processes, making it a prime target for malicious actors seeking to compromise Windows-based systems through web-based attacks. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-129 category of Improper Validation of Array Index, which directly relates to the lack of proper bounds checking in the array access mechanism. This weakness is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to manipulate memory locations through crafted input parameters, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious input string that is passed to the SetDLInfo method through the item argument parameter. The ActiveX control fails to validate the bounds of the array index, allowing an attacker to specify an index value that exceeds the allocated memory boundaries. This memory corruption can result in several operational impacts including privilege escalation, system crashes, or the execution of malicious code within the context of the user's privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because ActiveX controls are often automatically executed in Internet Explorer environments, making exploitation possible through simple web page visits without requiring user interaction beyond normal browsing. Attackers can leverage this flaw to inject malicious payloads that may include remote access tools, malware, or other harmful code that can persist on the compromised system.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1518 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to encompass full system compromise capabilities. When successfully exploited, the memory corruption can lead to privilege escalation from standard user to system administrator level, depending on the execution context and system configuration. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls may be enabled by default, creating widespread attack surface exposure. Security researchers have noted that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.002 for component object model and dcom, as it exploits the trust relationship between web browsers and ActiveX components. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices that are commonly found in legacy software components, making it a typical example of how outdated ActiveX controls can pose significant security risks in modern computing environments. Organizations utilizing GIGABYTE hardware with the affected Dldrv2 ActiveX control should immediately implement mitigation strategies including disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers, applying security patches, and monitoring for suspicious network activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the persistent security challenges associated with ActiveX technology and legacy software components. The vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor flaws in array boundary checking can create catastrophic security consequences, particularly when these components are widely deployed and automatically executed in web browsing contexts. Security professionals should recognize this as a classic example of why organizations must maintain up-to-date software inventories, implement proper input validation across all application components, and regularly audit their systems for potentially vulnerable ActiveX controls. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of adhering to security best practices such as least privilege execution, network segmentation, and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of similar flaws in other system components.