CVE-2006-3355 in mpg123
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in httpdget.c in mpg123 before 0.59s-rll allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long URL, which is not properly terminated before being used with the strncpy function. NOTE: This appears to be the result of an incomplete patch for CVE-2004-0982.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-3355 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow condition that existed in the mpg123 media player software version 0.59s-rll and earlier. This flaw specifically affects the httpdget.c component of the software, which handles HTTP downloads for streaming media content. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of URL strings when they are processed through the strncpy function, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted long URLs can trigger memory corruption. The issue is particularly concerning because it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on systems running vulnerable versions of mpg123, effectively providing them with complete control over the affected system. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the specific implementation in this case involves heap memory manipulation rather than stack memory. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution flaw that can be exploited over network connections, making it particularly dangerous in environments where mpg123 is used to stream media content from untrusted sources.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the improper use of the strncpy function which does not guarantee null termination of the destination buffer when the source string length equals or exceeds the specified limit. When a remote attacker crafts a URL that exceeds the expected buffer size, the strncpy function copies the data but leaves the destination buffer unterminated, creating a situation where subsequent string operations can read beyond the allocated memory boundaries. This heap-based buffer overflow allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses and function pointers, which can be manipulated to redirect program execution flow. The incomplete patch referenced in the CVE description suggests that the original vulnerability CVE-2004-0982 was not properly addressed, leaving residual weaknesses in the code that attackers could exploit. This pattern of incomplete vulnerability remediation is a common issue in software security where developers may address some aspects of a vulnerability while leaving others unaddressed, creating new attack surfaces that can be leveraged by threat actors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and availability of systems running vulnerable versions of mpg123. Since mpg123 is commonly used as a command-line audio player and streaming client, systems that process media content from untrusted sources become prime targets for exploitation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability in various scenarios including web-based media streaming, automated media processing systems, and any environment where mpg123 is used to download content from external sources. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for networked environments. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would allow for arbitrary command execution. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1203 for exploitation for privilege escalation, since code execution could potentially be used to gain elevated privileges on the affected system. The severity classification of this vulnerability is high given that it allows for complete system compromise without requiring authentication or specific user interaction beyond visiting a malicious URL.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems with the corrected version of mpg123 that properly addresses the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems running mpg123 to untrusted networks. Input validation measures should be implemented at network boundaries to filter out suspiciously long URLs or malformed HTTP requests that could be used to exploit this vulnerability. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual network traffic patterns or attempts to access media content from known malicious sources. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict the execution of mpg123 to trusted environments only. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper memory management practices in software development, particularly around functions that handle string operations and buffer boundaries. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments of their media processing systems and ensure that all third-party software components are kept up to date with the latest security patches. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to exploit buffer overflow vulnerabilities can provide early warning of potential attacks targeting this specific flaw. The incident serves as a reminder that vulnerability management is an ongoing process requiring continuous monitoring and updating of security controls to address both known and emerging threats in the software ecosystem.