CVE-2006-1464 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Apple QuickTime before 7.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted QuickTime MPEG4 (M4P) video format file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1464 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Apple QuickTime software versions prior to 7.1. This security weakness specifically affects the handling of QuickTime MPEG4 M4P video format files, creating a remote code execution vector that could be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the QuickTime media processing engine, which fails to properly handle malformed or oversized data structures in the M4P file format.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the QuickTime player attempts to parse and process a specially crafted M4P file containing oversized or malformed buffer data. The software does not perform proper bounds checking on the data read from the file, allowing an attacker to overflow the allocated memory buffers and overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can be manipulated to redirect program execution flow, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running the QuickTime player. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, which is a well-documented weakness in software security practices. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be delivered through web-based content or email attachments, making it accessible to remote attackers without requiring local system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass significant risks for end-user systems and enterprise environments. When exploited, the buffer overflow can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects a widely used media player application that was commonly installed on both personal computers and enterprise systems, amplifying the potential attack surface. Organizations relying on QuickTime for media playback in corporate environments, educational institutions, or media production facilities faced substantial risk exposure, as the vulnerability could be triggered through normal media playback operations without user awareness.
Security mitigations for CVE-2006-1464 primarily focus on immediate software updates and system hardening measures. Apple addressed this vulnerability by releasing QuickTime 7.1, which included proper input validation and memory boundary checks for M4P file processing. System administrators should prioritize patch management to ensure all affected systems receive the security update promptly. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious media content, disabling QuickTime plugin execution in web browsers, and employing sandboxing techniques to limit potential damage from successful exploits. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices such as those recommended by the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve execution of malicious code through the compromised media player. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability could be used in targeted attacks against specific user groups or systems.