CVE-2006-2230 in xine
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple format string vulnerabilities in xiTK (xitk/main.c) in xine 0.99.4 might allow attackers to cause a denial of service via format string specifiers in an MP3 filename specified on the command line. NOTE: this is a different vulnerability than CVE-2006-1905. In addition, if the only attack vectors involve a user-assisted, local command line argument of a non-setuid program, this issue might not be a vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-2230 represents a format string vulnerability within the xine media player version 0.99.4, specifically in the xiTK component located in xitk/main.c. This flaw manifests when the application processes MP3 filenames provided through command line arguments, creating a potential avenue for malicious exploitation. The vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-134, which specifically addresses format string vulnerabilities where attacker-controlled data is used as a format string argument to functions like printf, sprintf, or related formatting functions. The issue is particularly significant because it demonstrates how seemingly benign command line parameter handling can introduce serious security risks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when xine processes command line arguments containing MP3 filenames that include format string specifiers such as %s, %d, or other printf-style formatting characters. When the application fails to properly sanitize or escape these input parameters before passing them to formatting functions, an attacker can manipulate the program's behavior by injecting malicious format specifiers. This manipulation can lead to information disclosure, stack corruption, or ultimately cause the application to crash and terminate unexpectedly, resulting in a denial of service condition. The vulnerability is classified as a local issue since it requires an attacker to have access to the system and the ability to execute the xine application with crafted command line arguments.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and sanitization in multimedia applications that process user-provided file paths and names. The denial of service impact means that legitimate users may be unable to play MP3 files through the xine player, potentially affecting media playback capabilities on systems where xine is the primary or default media player. The vulnerability also highlights the broader security principle that applications should never trust user input and must properly handle all external data, particularly when such data is used in contexts that involve system-level operations or formatting functions. This issue is particularly concerning in environments where xine might be used in automated or unattended scenarios where a denial of service could have cascading effects.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-2230 primarily involve updating to a patched version of xine where the format string vulnerabilities have been addressed through proper input sanitization and validation. System administrators should ensure that all instances of xine are updated to versions that have resolved this specific vulnerability. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of using untrusted media files and the importance of avoiding command line arguments that contain potentially malicious input. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of implementing proper security practices such as using secure coding guidelines, conducting regular code reviews, and employing static analysis tools to identify potential format string vulnerabilities in software applications. Organizations should also consider implementing input validation mechanisms at multiple layers to prevent malicious data from reaching vulnerable components within their applications.