CVE-2012-6429 in Kies
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the PrepareSync method in the SyncService.dll ActiveX control in Samsung Kies before 2.5.1.12123_2_7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string to the password argument.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-6429 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Samsung Kies synchronization software suite, specifically affecting versions prior to 2.5.1.12123_2_7. This issue resides in the SyncService.dll ActiveX control and manifests through the PrepareSync method, creating a significant security risk that enables remote code execution. The vulnerability exploits a classic buffer overflow condition where insufficient input validation allows attackers to supply excessively long strings to the password argument parameter, ultimately leading to memory corruption and potential arbitrary code execution on vulnerable systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the ActiveX control's PrepareSync method, which fails to validate the length of input data before processing. When a maliciously crafted string exceeding the allocated buffer size is passed to the password argument, the overflow occurs in the stack memory region, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as a fundamental memory safety issue. The vulnerability's remote exploitability is facilitated by the ActiveX control's web-based deployment model, allowing attackers to deliver malicious payloads through compromised websites or malicious documents that trigger the vulnerable component.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-6429 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with full system compromise capabilities. Successful exploitation enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user, potentially leading to complete system takeover, data exfiltration, or installation of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects Samsung Kies users who may encounter the ActiveX control through web browsing or email attachments, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently interact with malicious content. The attack vector leverages the Trusted Application model, where ActiveX controls are granted elevated privileges, creating a significant risk when combined with buffer overflow exploitation techniques that align with the MITRE ATT&CK framework's T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter tactics.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of Samsung Kies to version 2.5.1.12123_2_7 or later, which addresses the buffer overflow through proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. System administrators should also implement browser security configurations that restrict ActiveX control execution, disable unnecessary ActiveX components, and deploy application whitelisting policies to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability's remediation aligns with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top 10 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework, emphasizing the importance of input validation, secure coding practices, and timely patch management. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability's exploitation typically involves specific payload delivery mechanisms that can be identified through network traffic analysis and endpoint detection systems.