CVE-2004-1188 in xine-lib
Summary
by MITRE
The pnm_get_chunk function in xine 0.99.2 and earlier, and other packages such as MPlayer that use the same code, does not properly verify that the chunk size is less than the PREAMBLE_SIZE, which causes a read operation with a negative length that leads to a buffer overflow via (1) RMF_TAG, (2) DATA_TAG, (3) PROP_TAG, (4) MDPR_TAG, and (5) CONT_TAG values, a different vulnerability than CVE-2004-1187.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1188 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting multimedia playback software that processes realmedia files. This vulnerability exists within the pnm_get_chunk function implementation in xine version 0.99.2 and earlier versions, as well as in other multimedia applications that utilize the same codebase such as MPlayer. The core issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly verify chunk size parameters against the predefined PREAMBLE_SIZE threshold. This fundamental flaw creates a scenario where maliciously crafted realmedia files can trigger unintended memory access patterns.
The technical exploitation occurs when the pnm_get_chunk function processes specific tag values including RMF_TAG, DATA_TAG, PROP_TAG, MDPR_TAG, and CONT_TAG. During normal operation, these tags should contain valid size parameters that dictate how much data to read from the file. However, the vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate these parameters to create negative length read operations. When the chunk size parameter exceeds the PREAMBLE_SIZE boundary, the function performs a read operation with a negative length value, which fundamentally corrupts memory management operations and creates conditions for buffer overflow exploitation.
This vulnerability operates at the intersection of multiple cybersecurity domains and aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-129, concerning improper validation of buffer dimensions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables remote code execution capabilities when exploited, allowing attackers to potentially gain unauthorized system access through multimedia file processing. The attack vector specifically targets applications that handle realmedia format files, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted media content.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple buffer corruption, as it provides a pathway for privilege escalation and system compromise. Attackers can craft malicious realmedia files that, when processed by vulnerable applications, will trigger the buffer overflow condition. This exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution, system crashes, or complete system compromise depending on the target environment. The vulnerability's presence in multiple widely-used multimedia applications including xine and MPlayer amplifies its potential impact across different user bases and operating systems. Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability represents a classic example of input validation failure that can be addressed through proper boundary checking and parameter validation mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1188 should focus on immediate software updates and patches provided by vendors. Organizations must ensure that all affected multimedia applications are updated to versions that address the chunk size validation issue. Additionally, implementing network-based security controls such as content filtering and sandboxing mechanisms can help reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper software security testing including fuzzing and boundary condition testing. From a defensive standpoint, maintaining updated threat intelligence feeds and implementing comprehensive application whitelisting policies can help prevent execution of vulnerable software versions. The remediation approach should also include user education regarding the risks of processing untrusted multimedia content, as this vulnerability specifically targets user interaction with media files.