CVE-2004-0431 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in Apple QuickTime (QuickTime.qts) before 6.5.1 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a large "number of entries" field in the sample-to-chunk table data for a .mov movie file, which leads to a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/12/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-0431 represents a critical integer overflow condition within Apple QuickTime's handling of media file structures, specifically affecting versions prior to 6.5.1. This flaw exists in the parsing of sample-to-chunk table data within .mov movie files, where the software fails to properly validate the size parameter that indicates the number of entries in this table structure. The issue stems from the improper conversion and handling of integer values during the file parsing process, creating a scenario where an attacker can manipulate the file format to trigger unexpected behavior in the application's memory management.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the sample-to-chunk table's "number of entries" field, which is used to determine how many chunks of data should be processed during media playback. When an attacker crafts a malicious .mov file with an excessively large value in this field, the application's integer overflow condition causes the calculated buffer size to wrap around to a small value, while the actual number of entries remains large. This discrepancy results in insufficient memory allocation for the buffer, leading to a heap-based buffer overflow when the application attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to achieve arbitrary code execution within the context of the QuickTime application. This represents a severe privilege escalation vector since QuickTime is often invoked automatically when users open media files, making the attack surface particularly wide. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and demonstrates how improper input validation can lead to memory corruption vulnerabilities. Attackers can leverage this flaw to inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the QuickTime process, potentially leading to full system compromise.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability exemplifies the persistent challenge of buffer overflow exploits in multimedia applications, which have been a primary target for attackers for decades. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1190, which covers exploits for execution through the use of malicious files, and demonstrates how media processing applications remain attractive targets due to their widespread use and complex parsing requirements. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal sophistication and can be automated through crafted file delivery, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or drive-by download scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected QuickTime versions to 6.5.1 or later, which includes proper integer overflow checks and bounds validation in the sample-to-chunk table parsing code. System administrators should implement network-based protections such as content filtering and sandboxing of media file handling processes to reduce the attack surface. Additionally, user education regarding the dangers of opening unknown or untrusted media files remains crucial, as the vulnerability can be exploited through social engineering tactics. The fix implemented by Apple addresses the core issue through enhanced input validation and proper integer arithmetic handling, preventing the overflow condition that previously led to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution.