CVE-2018-3851 in Perceptive Document Filters
Summary
by MITRE
In Hyland Perceptive Document Filters 11.4.0.2647 - x86/x64 Windows/Linux, an exploitable stack-based buffer overflow exists in the DOC-to-HTML conversion functionality of the Hyland Perceptive Document Filters version 11.4.0.2647. A crafted .doc document can lead to a stack-based buffer, resulting in direct code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3851 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within Hyland Perceptive Document Filters version 11.4.0.2647 across both x86 and x64 Windows and Linux platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the document conversion functionality that processes Microsoft Word documents (.doc files) and converts them to HTML format. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and memory management within the conversion pipeline, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is a well-documented and highly dangerous class of vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by overwriting return addresses and function pointers stored on the stack. The attack vector requires an attacker to craft a specially designed .doc file that, when processed by the vulnerable software, triggers the buffer overflow condition.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway for privilege escalation and system compromise within environments that utilize Hyland Perceptive Document Filters. When a user opens or processes the malicious document through the affected software, the buffer overflow can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow and inject malicious payloads into the target system. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where document processing is a common function and where the software may be running with elevated privileges. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires minimal user interaction beyond opening the malicious document, making it suitable for social engineering attacks and automated exploitation campaigns. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, demonstrating how the initial compromise can lead to broader system access and control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-3851 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected software to the latest available version from Hyland that addresses the buffer overflow vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict document filtering policies that prevent processing of untrusted .doc files or implement sandboxing mechanisms for document analysis. Network-based protections such as intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. Additionally, system administrators should consider disabling the DOC-to-HTML conversion functionality if it is not critical to business operations, and implement least privilege principles for the software installation to limit potential damage from successful exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and the need for robust input validation in document processing applications. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual document processing activities and potential memory corruption indicators that may suggest exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected software components that may share similar processing logic and architecture patterns.