CVE-2014-4647 in Embarcadero
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the loadExtensionFactory method in the TSVisualization ActiveX control in Embarcadero ER/Studio Data Architect allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2018
The CVE-2014-4647 vulnerability represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the TSVisualization ActiveX control component of Embarcadero ER/Studio Data Architect software. This vulnerability specifically affects the loadExtensionFactory method which processes external data inputs without adequate bounds checking or input validation mechanisms. The flaw exists in the ActiveX control's memory management implementation where insufficient stack buffer size validation allows malicious data to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability's remote exploitability stems from the ActiveX control's ability to be instantiated through web browsers or other applications that support ActiveX components, making it accessible to attackers who can deliver malicious payloads through web-based attack vectors.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite stack memory. The flaw occurs during the processing of extension factory loading operations where the ActiveX control fails to properly validate the length of incoming data before copying it into fixed-size stack buffers. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through web browsers that support ActiveX controls, allowing remote attackers to craft malicious web pages or documents that trigger the vulnerable method when the control is loaded. The attack vector typically involves embedding malicious data within extension factory parameters that are processed by the loadExtensionFactory method, leading to stack corruption and potential code execution at the privilege level of the victim's browser session.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-4647 extends beyond simple code execution as it provides attackers with a means to bypass security controls and potentially gain unauthorized access to systems. When successfully exploited, this vulnerability can allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable ActiveX control, which typically corresponds to the browser user's privileges. The vulnerability affects organizations using Embarcadero ER/Studio Data Architect versions that include the TSVisualization ActiveX control, particularly those that have not applied the vendor-provided security patches or updates. The remote exploitation capability makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently visit malicious websites or open compromised documents containing the malicious ActiveX control references.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4647 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems with the vendor-provided security updates. Organizations should disable ActiveX controls in web browsers where possible, particularly in environments where users are not required to interact with ActiveX components. Network-based mitigations can include firewall rules that block access to known vulnerable ActiveX control registration points and web content that may trigger the vulnerable functionality. Security monitoring should focus on detecting attempts to load the TSVisualization ActiveX control or access vulnerable web pages that may trigger the buffer overflow condition. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict which ActiveX controls can be loaded in browser environments can provide defense-in-depth protection against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in ActiveX controls, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1203 which covers exploitation of vulnerabilities in ActiveX controls and browser plugins. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to prevent users from visiting malicious websites or opening compromised documents that may contain the exploit vectors for this vulnerability.