CVE-2006-6251 in VUPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in VUPlayer 2.44 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in an M3U file, aka an "M3U UNC Name" attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6251 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw affecting VUPlayer version 2.44 and earlier. This security weakness resides within the media player's handling of M3U playlist files, specifically when processing UNC (Universal Naming Convention) paths that contain excessively long strings. The vulnerability operates by exploiting improper input validation mechanisms that fail to properly bounds-check string lengths when parsing M3U file contents, creating an opportunity for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it enables remote code execution, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious code on vulnerable systems simply by enticing users to open a specially crafted M3U file. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue in software development practices.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious M3U file contains a UNC path string that exceeds the allocated buffer size in VUPlayer's memory management. During normal operation, the player reads the M3U file and processes the file paths contained within it, but fails to validate the length of UNC names before copying them into fixed-size buffers. When the buffer overflow occurs, it can overwrite the return address on the stack, allowing an attacker to redirect program execution to malicious code that has been injected into the memory space. This attack vector is particularly effective because M3U files are commonly shared through various channels including email attachments, instant messaging, and web downloads, making it easy for attackers to deliver malicious payloads to unsuspecting users. The attack scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1193 for Replication Through Removable Media and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as the vulnerability enables arbitrary code execution through legitimate media file handling processes.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-6251 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Once successfully exploited, attackers can gain full control over the affected system, potentially using it as a launch point for further attacks against networked resources. The vulnerability affects systems running VUPlayer 2.44 and earlier versions, which were widely distributed across various operating systems including Windows platforms, making it a significant concern for organizations with legacy software deployments. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access to the target system, and the attack can be delivered through network-based vectors. Organizations using vulnerable versions of VUPlayer face potential data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive information, particularly in environments where users may inadvertently open malicious M3U files from untrusted sources. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper memory management in preventing exploitation of buffer overflow conditions, as highlighted in industry best practices for secure coding standards and the OWASP Top Ten security risks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-6251 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by VUPlayer vendors, as well as implementing defensive measures such as restricting M3U file execution permissions and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. Organizations should also consider network-based protections including firewall rules that prevent access to potentially malicious M3U file sources and endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block suspicious file operations. The vulnerability underscores the necessity of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing comprehensive patch management processes to protect against known security flaws. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of opening unknown M3U files and the importance of verifying file sources can significantly reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation. Security teams should also implement monitoring procedures to detect unusual file processing activities that may indicate exploitation attempts, particularly around media player applications and file handling operations. The remediation process should include thorough vulnerability assessments of all systems running affected software versions and implementation of compensating controls until official patches are deployed.