CVE-2013-6748 in Lotus Quickr for Domino
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the ActiveX control in qp2.cab in IBM Lotus Quickr for Domino 8.5.1 before 8.5.1.42-001b allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted HTML document, a different vulnerability than CVE-2013-6749.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6748 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the ActiveX control component of IBM Lotus Quickr for Domino version 8.5.1. This specific weakness resides in the qp2.cab file which is part of the Lotus Quickr installation package designed for Domino server environments. The vulnerability manifests when the affected ActiveX control processes specially crafted HTML content, creating a condition where memory boundaries are exceeded during data handling operations. This buffer overflow vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the client-side component of the Lotus Quickr system, making it particularly dangerous in web-based attack scenarios.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the ActiveX control's processing logic. When a malicious HTML document containing crafted data is rendered by a vulnerable system, the control fails to properly bounds-check incoming data before copying it into fixed-length memory buffers. This allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious data, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The flaw is classified as a classic buffer overflow vulnerability under CWE-121, which specifically addresses buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows memory to be overwritten. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages web-based delivery mechanisms, making exploitation possible through standard web browsers without requiring specialized attack tools or direct system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with elevated privileges and potential system compromise within the Domino environment. IBM Lotus Quickr serves as a collaboration platform that integrates with Domino servers, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where Domino servers host sensitive business data. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to collaboration features, potentially leading to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would align with techniques such as T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as attackers could leverage the initial code execution to establish persistent access or escalate their privileges within the system. Organizations running vulnerable versions of IBM Lotus Quickr for Domino face significant risk of targeted attacks, especially when users browse untrusted web content or receive malicious email attachments that trigger the vulnerable ActiveX control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-6748 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive measures including the application of IBM's official security patches and updates specifically designed to address this buffer overflow vulnerability. System administrators should disable or remove the vulnerable ActiveX controls from client systems where possible, particularly in environments where users access untrusted web content. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to Domino servers and limit potential attack surface. Additionally, security awareness training for end users should emphasize the importance of avoiding suspicious web content and email attachments that could trigger the vulnerable ActiveX control. The remediation process should also include thorough vulnerability scanning and assessment of all Domino server installations to identify and isolate any systems running vulnerable versions of Lotus Quickr. Organizations should implement monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain detailed audit logs of ActiveX control usage within their environments. Given the nature of the vulnerability and its potential for remote code execution, regular security assessments and patch management procedures should be strengthened to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in future software releases.