CVE-2019-9141 in Zoneplayer
Summary
by MITRE
ZInsVX.dll ActiveX Control 2018.02 and earlier in Zoneplayer contains a vulnerability that could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary files by setting the arguments to the ActiveX method. This can be leveraged for remote code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-9141 affects the ZInsVX.dll ActiveX control version 2018.02 and earlier distributed with Zoneplayer software. This represents a critical security flaw that exploits the improper handling of user-supplied arguments within ActiveX method calls, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability resides in the control's implementation where input validation is insufficient, allowing attackers to manipulate method parameters to execute malicious code on vulnerable systems. ActiveX controls are inherently risky components that run with the privileges of the user who executes them, making this particular vulnerability especially dangerous in enterprise environments where users may have elevated permissions.
The technical flaw manifests when the ZInsVX.dll ActiveX control processes method arguments without proper sanitization or validation. Attackers can craft malicious input parameters that bypass normal execution boundaries and trigger arbitrary code execution on the target system. This vulnerability specifically affects systems running Windows operating systems where Zoneplayer software is installed, particularly those with ActiveX support enabled in web browsers. The flaw aligns with CWE-74, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in data queries, and CWE-119, which covers insufficient protection of data structures. The attack vector typically involves tricking users into visiting malicious websites or opening compromised email attachments that contain malicious ActiveX content designed to exploit this specific vulnerability.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-9141 is severe and multifaceted, as it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage. This vulnerability can be leveraged by attackers to establish persistent access to compromised systems, deploy additional malware, or escalate privileges to gain administrative control over affected machines. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that ActiveX controls are often enabled by default in Internet Explorer, which was the primary browser targeted by this exploit. Organizations using Zoneplayer software are at risk of complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within their networks. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, highlighting the attack chain from initial compromise to execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-9141 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates provided by Zoneplayer vendors, as well as network-level protections such as disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers and implementing application whitelisting policies. Organizations should also consider network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation and deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious ActiveX-related traffic. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of Zoneplayer software across their networks and ensure proper patch management processes are in place. Additionally, user education regarding the dangers of visiting untrusted websites and opening suspicious email attachments remains crucial in preventing exploitation of this vulnerability. The recommended approach includes disabling ActiveX controls in browsers, updating to the latest version of Zoneplayer software, and implementing network-based controls to prevent execution of malicious ActiveX content.