CVE-2012-4333 in NET-i viewer
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in the BackupToAvi method in the (1) UMS_Ctrl 1.5.1.1 and (2) UMS_Ctrl_STW 2.0.1.0 ActiveX controls in Samsung NET-i viewer 1.37.120316 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in the fname parameter. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4333 represents a critical security flaw affecting Samsung NET-i viewer 1.37.120316 through its UMS_Ctrl ActiveX controls version 1.5.1.1 and UMS_Ctrl_STW version 2.0.1.0. This issue manifests as multiple stack-based buffer overflows that occur within the BackupToAvi method of these ActiveX components. The flaw specifically arises when processing the fname parameter, which is susceptible to malicious input manipulation. The vulnerability exists due to inadequate input validation and bounds checking mechanisms within the ActiveX control implementation, creating a predictable memory corruption scenario that adversaries can exploit to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The affected ActiveX controls are designed for multimedia processing and file handling operations, making them particularly attractive targets for attackers seeking to compromise systems through browser-based attacks.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The flaw operates through a classic buffer overrun attack vector where a maliciously crafted string exceeding the allocated buffer size in the fname parameter causes stack corruption. This corruption can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, and other critical stack data structures, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow to malicious code. The vulnerability specifically affects Windows systems running the Samsung NET-i viewer application, where ActiveX controls are executed within web browsers or other supporting applications. The buffer overflow occurs during the processing of user-supplied input without proper sanitization or length validation, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through web-based exploitation vectors.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-4333 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass full system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to affected systems, potentially establishing persistent backdoors or elevating privileges within the compromised environment. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers need only convince victims to visit malicious websites or open specially crafted files containing the exploit payload. This characteristic places the vulnerability within the ATT&CK framework's technique T1203, which covers Exploitation for Client Execution, and T1059, which encompasses Command and Scripting Interpreter techniques. The attack surface is significant as the Samsung NET-i viewer is commonly used in enterprise environments for network monitoring and video surveillance applications, making successful exploitation potentially devastating for organizations relying on these systems for security operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-4333 should prioritize immediate remediation through software updates from Samsung, as the vendor would have released patches addressing the buffer overflow conditions in the affected ActiveX controls. Organizations should implement comprehensive browser security measures including ActiveX control restrictions and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious ActiveX components. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. Security teams should also consider disabling ActiveX controls entirely in environments where they are not strictly required for business operations, following the principle of least privilege. Additionally, regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar issues in other ActiveX controls or legacy software components within the organization's infrastructure. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and secure coding practices, particularly in components that handle user-supplied data in environments where privilege escalation and code execution risks are significant concerns.