CVE-2012-0198 in Tivoli Provisioning Manager Express for Software Distribution
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the RunAndUploadFile method in the Isig.isigCtl.1 ActiveX control in IBM Tivoli Provisioning Manager Express for Software Distribution 4.1.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors related to an Asset Information file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0198 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the IBM Tivoli Provisioning Manager Express for Software Distribution version 4.1.1. This vulnerability specifically affects the Isig.isigCtl.1 ActiveX control, which is designed to handle asset information files during software distribution processes. The flaw exists in the RunAndUploadFile method, making it a prime target for exploitation by remote attackers seeking to gain unauthorized system access. The vulnerability's classification as a stack-based buffer overflow indicates that malicious input can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the program stack, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the ActiveX control's processing of Asset Information files. When the RunAndUploadFile method receives malformed input data, it fails to properly bounds-check the buffer allocation, allowing attackers to overflow the designated memory space. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checking permits data to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. The attack vector leverages the ActiveX control's interaction with web browsers, as these controls are commonly executed in web contexts where untrusted input can be easily injected through malicious web pages or crafted asset files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities within the targeted environment. Remote exploitation allows malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable ActiveX control, typically corresponding to the system's local user or application sandbox level. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in software applications to execute malicious code. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise environments where IBM Tivoli Provisioning Manager is deployed, as successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized software distribution, system compromise, or lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their systems. The primary recommendation involves disabling or removing the vulnerable ActiveX control from affected systems, particularly those running IBM Tivoli Provisioning Manager Express 4.1.1. Patch management should be prioritized to ensure the installation of the latest security updates from IBM, which would address the buffer overflow condition through proper input validation and bounds checking. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, preventing unauthorized execution of the vulnerable control. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file upload activities or unusual network communications that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in ActiveX controls and highlights the need for regular security assessments of enterprise software components that interact with web environments.