CVE-2002-0247 in wmtv
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflows in wmtv 0.6.5 and earlier may allow local users to gain privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0247 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting the wmtv media player version 0.6.5 and earlier. This issue resides within the software's handling of input data, specifically when processing media files or configuration parameters that exceed allocated memory boundaries. The buffer overflow occurs in the application's memory management routines where insufficient bounds checking allows maliciously crafted input to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects local users who can exploit the flaw to elevate their privileges on the system, bypassing normal security controls and gaining unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from improper input validation mechanisms within the wmtv application's codebase. When processing user-supplied data, the software fails to adequately verify the length of input parameters before copying them into fixed-size buffers. This classic programming error creates a scenario where an attacker can carefully construct input that overflows the designated buffer space and corrupts adjacent memory regions including return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures. The vulnerability manifests during normal operation when the application attempts to parse media files or configuration settings, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered by routine user activities without requiring specialized attack vectors.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to systems running affected versions of wmtv as local privilege escalation can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker with low-privilege access can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially gaining root access or administrative control over the affected system. The impact extends beyond immediate privilege escalation as compromised systems can serve as launch points for further attacks within network environments, facilitating lateral movement and persistent access. Additionally, the vulnerability's local nature means that exploitation does not require network connectivity, making it particularly stealthy and difficult to detect through traditional network monitoring approaches.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0247 should prioritize immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the vendor. System administrators must ensure all installations of wmtv are upgraded to versions that address the buffer overflow vulnerability through proper input validation and memory management practices. Additional protective measures include implementing least privilege principles to limit user access to the affected application, conducting regular security audits of installed software, and monitoring system logs for suspicious activities that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can create security weaknesses that enable privilege escalation attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted software and employ runtime protection mechanisms that can detect and prevent buffer overflow exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing local privilege escalation attacks that can compromise entire system environments.