CVE-2006-7222 in Media Player Classic
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the CFLICStream::_deltachunk function in FLICSource.cpp in Media Player Classic (MPC) 6.4.9.0 allows user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted FLI file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-7222 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the Media Player Classic media player version 6.4.9.0. This flaw resides in the CFLICStream::_deltachunk function located in the FLICSource.cpp source file, which processes FLI animation files. The issue arises when the player encounters a specially crafted FLI file that triggers an unchecked buffer overflow during the processing of delta chunks within the FLI file format. This represents a classic stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability that can be exploited through user-assisted remote attack vectors, where an attacker can deliver a malicious FLI file to a victim who is using the vulnerable Media Player Classic application.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the media player attempts to parse and render a malformed FLI file that contains oversized data in its delta chunk structures. The CFLICStream::_deltachunk function fails to properly validate the size of incoming data before copying it into fixed-size buffers, allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data. This memory corruption can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow and ultimately execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the victim user. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction beyond opening the malicious file, making it a prime candidate for social engineering attacks and drive-by downloads. According to CWE classification, this corresponds to CWE-121, which describes heap-based and stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and the attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution through media player applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities when successfully exploited. An attacker could potentially install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors on compromised systems. The vulnerability affects users who rely on Media Player Classic for viewing animations and multimedia content, particularly in enterprise environments where such media players might be present on workstations. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur through email attachments, web downloads, or network shares without requiring physical access to the target system. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader security posture assessment, particularly in environments where legacy media players are still in use. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that FLI files are commonly encountered in multimedia applications and can be easily disguised as legitimate content, making detection and prevention challenging. Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including disabling support for FLI files in media players, applying available patches, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts.