CVE-2003-0865 in mpg123
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in readstring of httpget.c for mpg123 0.59r and 0.59s allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0865 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within the mpg123 media player software version 0.59r and 0.59s. This issue specifically affects the readstring function located in the httpget.c source file, which handles HTTP request processing for streaming media content. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation when processing remote HTTP requests, creating a condition where maliciously crafted requests can overflow allocated memory buffers on the heap. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow classification, which is particularly dangerous due to the potential for arbitrary code execution in the context of the running application. The vulnerability exists in the context of HTTP protocol handling, making it exploitable through network-based attacks targeting the mpg123 application's web streaming capabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of string data during HTTP request processing, where the readstring function fails to properly bounds-check input data before copying it into fixed-size memory buffers allocated on the heap. When a remote attacker sends a specially crafted HTTP request containing an excessively long string, the function attempts to copy this data without sufficient validation, causing the heap memory to overflow beyond its allocated boundaries. This overflow can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting program execution flow and allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the mpg123 process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates in a network-facing context, enabling remote code execution without requiring local system access or user interaction.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation, as it can be leveraged for complete system compromise when the affected mpg123 application is running in a network-accessible environment. Attackers can construct malicious HTTP requests that trigger the buffer overflow condition, potentially leading to privilege escalation, data theft, or system takeover depending on the execution context of the affected application. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation, and T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through network-based attacks. The attack surface is particularly wide given that mpg123 is commonly used as a media player in various network environments, making it a potential target for automated exploitation tools. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices that are characteristic of insecure coding patterns and can serve as a vector for more sophisticated attack chains.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0865 should prioritize immediate patching of affected mpg123 versions to address the heap buffer overflow condition in the httpget.c file. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems running vulnerable versions of mpg123, particularly in environments where the application processes untrusted HTTP content. Input validation should be strengthened throughout the application codebase, with particular attention to string handling functions and memory allocation patterns to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in future development cycles. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be implemented to identify and remediate insecure coding practices that could lead to heap-based buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of applying security patches promptly and maintaining updated software inventories to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities in widely deployed applications.