CVE-2012-5897 in InTrust
Summary
by MITRE
The (1) SimpleTree and (2) ReportTree classees in the ARDoc ActiveX control (ARDoc.dll) in Quest InTrust 10.4.0.853 and earlier do not properly implement the SaveToFile method, which allows remote attackers to write or overwrite arbitrary files via the bstrFileName argument.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-5897 resides within the ARDoc ActiveX control component of Quest InTrust software version 10.4.0.853 and earlier. This issue affects two specific classes within the ActiveX control namely the SimpleTree and ReportTree classes which are designed to handle tree-structured data representations. The flaw manifests in the improper implementation of the SaveToFile method that should normally facilitate secure file operations but instead creates a dangerous path traversal condition. This vulnerability represents a classic example of insecure direct object reference where user-supplied input directly controls file system operations without adequate validation or sanitization.
The technical implementation flaw stems from the ActiveX control's failure to properly validate or sanitize the bstrFileName argument passed to the SaveToFile method. When remote attackers provide malicious input through this parameter, the control does not perform adequate checks to prevent directory traversal attacks or arbitrary file path resolution. This allows attackers to specify absolute file paths or manipulate relative paths to write or overwrite files anywhere on the target system where the ActiveX control has write permissions. The vulnerability essentially creates a remote code execution vector through file system manipulation, as attackers can potentially overwrite critical system files or inject malicious content into the application's file structure.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant security risk to organizations running Quest InTrust software, particularly in environments where ActiveX controls are enabled and trusted by users. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers can leverage this vulnerability from outside the network without requiring local system access or credentials. The potential for arbitrary file overwrite opens doors to various attack scenarios including privilege escalation, persistent backdoor installation, and system compromise. Organizations may experience unauthorized access to sensitive data, application integrity violations, and potential complete system takeover depending on the privileges under which the ActiveX control operates. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-73 Path Traversal, representing a direct implementation of insecure file handling practices.
The attack surface for this vulnerability extends beyond simple file manipulation to include potential privilege escalation scenarios where attackers can leverage the ActiveX control's permissions to modify system-critical files. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving persistence through file system modifications and privilege escalation through exploitation of trusted applications. Organizations should consider the broader implications of ActiveX control vulnerabilities in their security posture, as these components often run with elevated privileges and can bypass many standard security controls. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in component-based applications, particularly those involving file system operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-5897 should prioritize immediate patching of the Quest InTrust software to version 10.4.0.854 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the SaveToFile method implementation. Network administrators should disable ActiveX controls in web browsers for users who do not require them for legitimate business purposes, implementing browser security policies that restrict ActiveX execution. Additional protective measures include implementing strict file system permissions where the ActiveX control operates, monitoring for unauthorized file system modifications, and conducting regular security assessments of ActiveX components within the organization. The vulnerability underscores the necessity of secure coding practices and input validation in ActiveX controls, emphasizing the need for proper parameter sanitization and access control mechanisms to prevent unauthorized file system operations. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted ActiveX components and establish network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors.