CVE-2018-5203 in DEXTUploadX5
Summary
by MITRE
DEXTUploadX5 version Between 1.0.0.0 and 2.2.0.0 contains a vulnerability that could allow remote attacker to download and execute remote arbitrary file by setting the arguments to the activex method. this can be leveraged for code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-5203 affects DEXTUploadX5 software versions ranging from 1.0.0.0 through 2.2.0.0 and represents a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution through improper input validation within ActiveX method arguments. This vulnerability resides in the software's handling of user-supplied parameters during ActiveX method invocation, creating an attack surface that malicious actors can exploit to gain unauthorized system access. The flaw specifically manifests when the application fails to properly sanitize or validate input arguments passed to its ActiveX components, allowing attackers to manipulate method parameters to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-74, which addresses injection flaws, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code, as the software does not adequately control the execution flow when processing user inputs through ActiveX interfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential persistence mechanisms and privilege escalation opportunities within compromised environments. When exploited, the vulnerability allows remote attackers to download and execute arbitrary files on target systems, effectively granting them full control over the affected machines. This capability enables attackers to deploy malware, establish backdoors, or conduct further reconnaissance activities within network environments. The attack vector leverages the inherent trust relationships that exist between ActiveX controls and web browsers, making exploitation particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may interact with potentially malicious web content. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage, making it particularly effective for drive-by download attacks that can compromise systems without user awareness.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping it to techniques such as T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics of a privilege escalation vector since successful exploitation can result in code execution with the privileges of the vulnerable application. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers, updating to patched versions of DEXTUploadX5 software, and implementing network-based controls to prevent access to vulnerable systems. Additionally, security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual file downloads and execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in software development, particularly when dealing with components that interact with user-supplied data through potentially insecure interfaces. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.