CVE-2011-10028 in RealArcade ActiveX
Summary
by MITRE • 08/20/2025
The RealNetworks RealArcade platform includes an ActiveX control (InstallerDlg.dll, version 2.6.0.445) that exposes a method named Exec via the StubbyUtil.ProcessMgr COM object. This method allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on a victim's Windows machine without proper validation or restrictions. This platform was sometimes referred to or otherwise known as RealArcade or Arcade Games and has since consolidated with RealNetworks' platform, GameHouse.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-10028 represents a critical security flaw within the RealNetworks RealArcade platform ecosystem, specifically targeting the InstallerDlg.dll ActiveX control version 2.6.0.445. This vulnerability exists within the StubbyUtil.ProcessMgr COM object and exposes a method named Exec that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on victim machines. The RealArcade platform, also known as Arcade Games, was later consolidated into RealNetworks' broader platform and subsequently integrated with GameHouse, making this vulnerability relevant to understanding the security landscape of legacy multimedia and gaming platforms.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the COM object interface. The Exec method lacks proper authentication checks and command validation, allowing any remote attacker to invoke this functionality without authorization. This design flaw falls under CWE-78, which specifically addresses "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command," and CWE-352, covering "Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)." The vulnerability enables attackers to execute malicious commands with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable ActiveX control, typically corresponding to the local user context on Windows systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete command execution capabilities on compromised systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The attack surface is particularly concerning because ActiveX controls are commonly enabled in Internet Explorer environments, making exploitation relatively straightforward for attackers who can convince victims to visit compromised websites or download malicious content. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK techniques including T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, demonstrating how the initial compromise can lead to further system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation efforts including disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers, updating or removing the vulnerable InstallerDlg.dll component, and implementing proper network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Organizations should also consider deploying application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of unauthorized binaries and regularly audit their installed ActiveX controls to identify and remove legacy components that pose security risks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and privilege separation in COM object implementations, as well as the necessity of maintaining up-to-date security practices for legacy software platforms. Given the consolidation of RealArcade with GameHouse, this vulnerability serves as a reminder of the security challenges inherent in maintaining legacy systems and the importance of thorough security assessments during platform transitions.