CVE-2015-0795 in Security Solutions for iSeries
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in the SafeShellExecute method in the NetIQExecObject.NetIQExec.1 ActiveX control in NetIQExec.dll in NetIQ Security Solutions for iSeries 8.1 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via long arguments, aka ZDI-CAN-2699.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/13/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0795 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the NetIQ Security Solutions for iSeries 8.1 product line. This vulnerability specifically affects the SafeShellExecute method implemented in the NetIQExecObject.NetIQExec.1 ActiveX control, which is embedded within the NetIQExec.dll library. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly constrain the length of arguments passed to the vulnerable method, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to gain arbitrary code execution privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the ActiveX control's SafeShellExecute method. When maliciously crafted arguments exceeding the allocated stack buffer space are passed to this method, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially overwriting critical program execution elements such as return addresses or function pointers. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which directly enables attackers to manipulate program control flow and execute malicious payloads. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within an ActiveX control context, which typically runs with elevated privileges in web browser environments, amplifying the potential impact of successful exploitation.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant threat vector for remote attackers seeking to compromise systems running the affected NetIQ Security Solutions for iSeries 8.1 software. The attack surface is expanded due to the ActiveX control's integration with web browsers, allowing attackers to deliver malicious payloads through web-based exploitation vectors without requiring local system access. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, enabling attackers to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or establish persistent access to the compromised environment. The vulnerability's classification under the ZDI-CAN-2699 identifier indicates it was recognized and tracked by the Zero Day Initiative, highlighting its significance in the cybersecurity community and the need for immediate remediation efforts.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of the affected NetIQ Security Solutions for iSeries 8.1 software to address the buffer overflow condition in the vulnerable ActiveX control. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems running the affected software, particularly those with ActiveX controls enabled in browser environments. Browser security configurations should be adjusted to restrict ActiveX control loading and execution, while security monitoring should be enhanced to detect potential exploitation attempts through unusual argument patterns or memory access anomalies. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and maintaining up-to-date vulnerability management processes will help prevent exploitation attempts and provide defense-in-depth measures against similar vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures that address both the initial compromise and subsequent exploitation phases.