CVE-2012-4992 in FlashFXP
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in FlashFXP.exe in FlashFXP 4.2 allow remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via a long unicode string to (1) TListbox or (2) TComboBox.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4992 represents a critical security flaw in FlashFXP version 4.2 that exposes the application to remote code execution through buffer overflow conditions. This vulnerability specifically affects the FlashFXP.exe executable and targets two distinct UI components within the application's graphical interface. The flaw manifests when authenticated remote users submit carefully crafted unicode strings to either TListbox or TComboBox controls, which are standard visual components used for displaying lists and dropdown selections in the software's user interface. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations and potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input validation within the FlashFXP application's handling of unicode data. When users interact with the TListbox or TComboBox components, the application fails to validate the length of incoming unicode strings, creating opportunities for attackers to supply data exceeding the allocated buffer space. This allows for memory corruption that can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not need physical access to the target system, as they can exploit this flaw through network connections while authenticated to the FlashFXP service. The authentication requirement suggests that the attack vector involves legitimate user credentials, potentially enabling privilege escalation or lateral movement within compromised networks where FlashFXP is deployed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to gain full control over systems running vulnerable versions of FlashFXP. Given that FlashFXP is commonly used for file transfer operations in enterprise environments, successful exploitation could provide attackers with access to sensitive data, the ability to upload malicious files, or serve as a foothold for further network infiltration. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078 for valid accounts, as attackers would utilize legitimate authentication mechanisms to exploit the flaw. Organizations relying on FlashFXP for FTP operations face significant risk, particularly in environments where the application is accessible over networks or where users maintain persistent connections to external servers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-4992 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems with updated versions of FlashFXP that address the buffer overflow conditions. System administrators should implement network segmentation to limit access to FlashFXP installations and enforce strict access controls to minimize the attack surface. Additionally, monitoring for unusual network activity or authentication patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts should be implemented. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and bounds checking in GUI applications, particularly those handling user-provided data in components that may be susceptible to buffer overflows. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of vulnerable software versions and ensure that all systems using FlashFXP are regularly updated to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.