CVE-2003-1091 in Quicktime
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in MP3Broadcaster for Apple QuickTime/Darwin Streaming Server 4.1.3 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via malformed ID3 tags in MP3 files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1091 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within MP3Broadcaster, a component of Apple QuickTime/Darwin Streaming Server version 4.1.3. This issue manifests when the system processes MP3 files containing malformed ID3 tags, which are metadata containers used to store information about audio files. The integer overflow occurs during the parsing of these ID3 tags, specifically when handling certain malformed data structures that cause the system to miscalculate buffer sizes or array indices. The vulnerability falls under CWE-190, which classifies integer overflow conditions that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. This flaw demonstrates a classic buffer manipulation vulnerability where the server fails to properly validate input data before processing it, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system's memory management routines.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it potentially enables remote code execution capabilities that could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to the streaming server. When an attacker crafts MP3 files with specially constructed ID3 tags that trigger the integer overflow, the server's memory management becomes compromised, leading to unpredictable behavior including crashes, system instability, and in some cases, complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to execute, as the vulnerability can be triggered through standard media playback or streaming requests without requiring authentication. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves gaining access through manipulation of input data, and T1499, which covers the use of denial of service attacks to disrupt services. The vulnerability's exploitation potential makes it a significant threat to organizations relying on Apple's streaming infrastructure for media delivery.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-1091 should focus on immediate patching of the affected Apple QuickTime/Darwin Streaming Server components, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to streaming servers and employ content filtering mechanisms that validate and sanitize media file metadata before processing. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual patterns in streaming server behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and proper error handling in media processing applications, as recommended by security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Special Publication 800-164. Regular security assessments of streaming infrastructure and implementation of automated patch management processes are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future, particularly given the widespread use of QuickTime and Darwin-based streaming solutions in enterprise environments.