CVE-2018-5204 in ML Report
Summary
by MITRE
ML Report version Between 2.00.000.0000 and 2.18.628.5980 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-2018-5204 affects ML Report version ranges between 2.00.000.0000 and 2.18.628.5980, presenting 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, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate method calls to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow or injection vulnerability that allows attackers to bypass normal security controls and gain unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of ActiveX method arguments, which are typically used for client-side interactions in web browsers or applications that support ActiveX components. When the ML Report software processes these arguments without proper sanitization or validation, it creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious code that gets executed within the context of the application's privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-749, which encompasses "Expose of Functionality to Unintended Actors" and represents a significant concern for ActiveX-based applications that lack proper input validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to affected systems and potentially enables further exploitation within network environments. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can download and execute additional malicious payloads, establish backdoors, or perform reconnaissance activities to identify additional targets within the network. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur without physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where such applications may be deployed across multiple locations.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the attack chain described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under techniques related to execution through ActiveX components and remote code execution. The vulnerability's classification as a remote attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell," and T1203, which addresses "Exploitation for Client Execution." Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling ActiveX controls where possible, implementing strict input validation, and applying security patches as soon as they become available. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual outbound connections or file transfers that might indicate exploitation attempts.
The remediation approach should prioritize immediate patching of affected ML Report versions, with organizations conducting thorough inventory checks to identify all systems running vulnerable software. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional defense-in-depth measures to prevent exploitation attempts. Security teams should also implement monitoring for suspicious ActiveX method calls and parameter manipulation attempts, as these activities often precede successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly in applications that handle user-provided data through client-side components. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other ActiveX-based applications and ensure that all software components are kept up to date with the latest security patches.