CVE-2003-0054 in Quicktime Streaming Server
Summary
by MITRE
Apple Darwin Streaming Administration Server 4.1.2 and QuickTime Streaming Server 4.1.1 allows remote attackers to execute certain code via a request to port 7070 with the script in an argument to the rtsp DESCRIBE method, which is inserted into a log file and executed when the log is viewed using a browser.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0054 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting Apple Darwin Streaming Administration Server 4.1.2 and QuickTime Streaming Server 4.1.1. This security weakness stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the RTSP DESCRIBE method implementation, creating a dangerous condition where attacker-controlled data can be executed within the server environment. The vulnerability specifically manifests when a malicious request is sent to port 7070 containing a script within an argument to the rtsp DESCRIBE method, which then gets logged and subsequently executed when the log file is viewed through a web browser.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic server-side code injection pattern that aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')." The flaw occurs because the server fails to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into log files, creating a persistent cross-site scripting (XSS) condition that can escalate to remote code execution. When the log file is subsequently accessed via a web browser, the embedded malicious script executes in the context of the victim's browser, potentially allowing attackers to perform actions such as stealing session cookies, redirecting users to malicious sites, or executing arbitrary commands on the server. This vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation and output encoding practices that violates security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and the CERT/CC secure coding guidelines.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to streaming server environments without requiring authentication. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages a legitimate administrative interface port and method, making it difficult to detect through standard network monitoring. The vulnerability can be exploited by any remote user who can send requests to port 7070, potentially allowing attackers to compromise entire streaming infrastructure, steal sensitive media content, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network. This type of vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell," as the execution of malicious scripts within log files can effectively provide attackers with command execution capabilities on the affected systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected systems, as Apple released updates to address this specific flaw. Network administrators should implement strict input validation and sanitization measures at all points where user data enters the system, particularly for RTSP methods and log file generation processes. The implementation of proper output encoding when displaying log information can prevent script execution in web browsers, while network segmentation and access controls can limit the impact of potential exploitation. Additionally, monitoring for unusual activity on port 7070 and implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious RTSP requests can provide additional layers of defense. The vulnerability underscores the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing defense-in-depth strategies, as outlined in NIST SP 800-53 security controls, to prevent similar injection vulnerabilities from compromising critical streaming infrastructure.