CVE-2004-1150 in WinAmp
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the in_cdda.dll plugin for Winamp 5.0 through 5.08c allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a cda:// URL with a long (1) device name or (2) sound track number, as demonstrated with a .m3u or .pls playlist file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1150 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting the in_cdda.dll plugin within Winamp media player versions 5.0 through 5.08c. This flaw resides in the handling of cda:// URLs which are used to access CD audio tracks through the Windows CD-ROM drive interface. The vulnerability manifests when processing playlist files such as .m3u or .pls formats that contain maliciously crafted device names or sound track numbers exceeding the allocated buffer space. The buffer overflow occurs during the parsing of these URL parameters, specifically when the plugin attempts to store user-supplied data into a fixed-size stack buffer without proper bounds checking.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability operates through a classic stack buffer overflow exploitation pattern where insufficient input validation allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it leverages the media player's playlist functionality to deliver malicious payloads, making it accessible through common media file formats that users frequently encounter. The attack vector requires the user to open a specially crafted playlist file containing a cda:// URL with an excessively long device name or track number parameter, which then triggers the buffer overflow during the plugin's processing routine. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which represents a fundamental memory safety issue that has been consistently exploited in various software applications over the years.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities when successful. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Winamp process, potentially leading to full system compromise depending on the user's privileges. The vulnerability's exploitation is particularly concerning because it can be delivered through standard playlist files that users might encounter in legitimate contexts, making social engineering attacks more effective. The attack requires minimal technical sophistication from the attacker, as it only requires crafting a malicious playlist file rather than complex exploit development. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically through the use of media player plugins to execute arbitrary code.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of affected Winamp versions, as the vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent releases. Organizations should implement strict playlist file validation and filtering to prevent execution of potentially malicious media files. Network-level controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help block malicious playlist files from reaching end users. Additionally, user education regarding the dangers of opening unknown playlist files and the importance of keeping media software updated should be emphasized. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and bounds checking in plugin architectures, particularly when dealing with user-supplied data from external sources. Security practitioners should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized media player plugins, as this vulnerability specifically targets a third-party plugin component rather than the core media player functionality itself.