CVE-2020-7803 in Zoneplayer
Summary
by MITRE
IMGTech Co,Ltd ZInsX.ocx ActiveX Control in Zoneplayer 2.0.1.3, version 2.0.1.4 and prior versions on Windows. File Donwload vulnerability in ZInsX.ocx of IMGTech Co,Ltd Zoneplayer allows attacker to cause arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/16/2020
The CVE-2020-7803 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the ZInsX.ocx ActiveX control developed by IMGTech Co,Ltd for their Zoneplayer software version 2.0.1.3 and earlier. This vulnerability exists within the Windows operating system environment and specifically targets the Zoneplayer 2.0.1.4 and prior versions, creating a significant attack surface for malicious actors. The flaw manifests as a file download vulnerability that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, fundamentally compromising the security posture of vulnerable installations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and unsafe file handling within the ZInsX.ocx ActiveX control. When the control processes certain file download operations, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the file paths and content being downloaded, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the download process. This weakness enables attackers to craft malicious payloads that, when downloaded and executed through the vulnerable ActiveX control, can result in complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the trust relationship that ActiveX controls establish with the Windows operating system, making it particularly dangerous as it can bypass standard security mechanisms that protect against unauthorized code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-7803 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to establish persistent access to compromised systems. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and the potential for lateral movement within network environments where vulnerable systems exist. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-20, which addresses "Improper Input Validation," and demonstrates how insecure file handling can create opportunities for privilege escalation and remote code execution. Organizations running Zoneplayer software versions 2.0.1.4 and earlier face significant risk of targeted attacks, particularly in environments where ActiveX controls are enabled and users have administrative privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-7803 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary recommendation involves updating to Zoneplayer version 2.0.1.5 or later, which contains patches that address the file download vulnerability in the ZInsX.ocx control. System administrators should also implement ActiveX control restrictions through Group Policy settings, disabling or restricting the execution of vulnerable ActiveX controls in web browsers. Additionally, network segmentation and application whitelisting can help prevent exploitation attempts by limiting the attack surface. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the need for comprehensive application security measures and regular vulnerability assessments to prevent similar issues in other software components. Organizations should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts and maintain detailed audit logs of ActiveX control usage.