CVE-2002-0615 in Windows Media Player
Summary
by MITRE
The Windows Media Active Playlist in Microsoft Windows Media Player 7.1 stores information in a well known location on the local file system, allowing attackers to execute HTML scripts in the Local Computer zone, aka "Media Playback Script Invocation".
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0615 represents a significant security flaw in Microsoft Windows Media Player 7.1 that stems from improper handling of Active Playlist files within the Windows Media framework. This issue specifically affects the local file system storage mechanisms used by the media player to maintain playlist information, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to execute arbitrary HTML content within the Local Computer security zone. The vulnerability exploits the predictable file paths used by the application to store playlist data, enabling attackers to place malicious script content in these known locations.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the Windows Media Player's Active Playlist functionality which utilizes a specific file naming convention and storage location pattern. When the media player processes these playlist files, it fails to properly validate the content or sanitize the script execution environment. This creates an environment where HTML scripts embedded within playlist files can be executed automatically when the playlist is loaded, bypassing normal security restrictions that would typically prevent such execution in the Local Computer zone. The vulnerability essentially allows for privilege escalation through script execution within a context that should normally be restricted.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to execute malicious code on target systems with the privileges of the user running Windows Media Player. The Local Computer zone typically has more permissive security settings compared to Internet or Intranet zones, making this a particularly dangerous exploit as it can potentially allow for full system compromise. The attack vector requires minimal user interaction since the malicious scripts can be executed automatically when the playlist is loaded, making it an effective method for drive-by attacks. This vulnerability was particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of Windows Media Player 7.1 and the common practice of sharing media playlists in corporate and personal environments.
The security implications extend beyond simple script execution to encompass broader system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal user credentials, or establish persistent access to compromised systems. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-74 and CWE-79 categories related to improper neutralization of special elements in data and injection flaws, specifically targeting the Local Computer zone security model. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving execution through scripting and privilege escalation through exploitation of software vulnerabilities, specifically targeting the Windows Media Player application as an attack vector.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-0615 primarily involve immediate patching of affected Windows Media Player installations to the latest security updates from Microsoft. System administrators should disable Active Playlist functionality or implement strict file access controls to prevent unauthorized script execution. Network segmentation and user access restrictions can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Additionally, security awareness training should emphasize the dangers of opening unknown playlist files, and organizations should implement application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of potentially malicious media files. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure file handling practices in media player applications, particularly those that execute scripts within user contexts.