CVE-2014-0771 in WebAccess
Summary
by MITRE
The BWOCXRUN.BwocxrunCtrl.1 control contains a method named “OpenUrlToBuffer.” This method takes a URL as a parameter and returns its contents to the caller in JavaScript. The URLs are accessed in the security context of the current browser session. The control does not perform any URL validation and allows “file://” URLs that access the local disk.
The method can be used to open a URL (including file URLs) and read file URLs through JavaScript. This method could also be used to reach any arbitrary URL to which the browser has access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0771 resides within the BWOCXRUN.BwocxrunCtrl.1 ActiveX control component of Advantech WebAccess software, specifically manifesting in the OpenUrlToBuffer method. This flaw represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the target system through maliciously crafted file: URLs. The vulnerability affects versions of Advantech WebAccess prior to 7.2, indicating a significant security gap that persisted across multiple releases. ActiveX controls are inherently dangerous components that execute within the context of the user's browser, making them prime targets for exploitation when they contain insecure file handling mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the OpenUrlToBuffer method, which processes file: URLs without proper sanitization or access control measures. When a malicious file: URL is submitted to the method, the control fails to validate the requested file path, allowing attackers to traverse the file system and access sensitive files that should remain protected. This behavior aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal vulnerabilities, where insufficient restrictions on file access permit unauthorized file system navigation. The vulnerability specifically leverages the file protocol handler within ActiveX controls to bypass normal file access restrictions, creating an attack vector that operates entirely within the browser environment without requiring additional privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial, as it allows remote attackers to potentially access sensitive system information, configuration files, and potentially even user credentials or proprietary data stored on the affected system. The ability to read arbitrary files through a remote attack vector means that attackers can gather intelligence about the target environment, identify system configurations, and potentially discover additional vulnerabilities within the WebAccess platform. This type of information disclosure vulnerability can serve as a precursor to more severe attacks, including privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network. The attack requires no authentication from the victim, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through social engineering or automated scanning of vulnerable systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0771 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Advantech WebAccess installations to version 7.2 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit exposure of WebAccess systems to untrusted networks and consider disabling ActiveX controls in browser environments where possible. The remediation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers may use this vulnerability to gather information that could facilitate subsequent exploitation attempts. Additional protective measures include implementing strict access controls on sensitive files, monitoring for unusual file access patterns, and conducting regular security assessments of ActiveX components. Organizations should also consider deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious file: URL patterns, as this vulnerability operates through standard HTTP protocols that can be monitored and filtered at the network perimeter.