CVE-2007-0254 in xine-ui
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in the errors_create_window function in errors.c in xine-ui allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0254 represents a critical format string vulnerability within the xine multimedia player user interface component. This flaw exists in the errors_create_window function located in the errors.c source file, where improper handling of user-supplied input during error message generation creates an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize input parameters before using them in format string operations, which is a well-documented weakness that has been classified under CWE-134. The xine-ui component serves as the graphical interface for the xine multimedia framework, making it a prime target for exploitation since it processes various user inputs including media file names, URLs, and configuration parameters that may contain maliciously crafted format specifiers.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the errors_create_window function receives untrusted input and directly incorporates it into a printf-style function call without proper sanitization. Attackers can craft malicious input that contains format specifiers such as %x, %s, or %n which, when processed by the vulnerable function, can lead to memory corruption and potentially arbitrary code execution. The attack vector is particularly insidious because it can be triggered through various means including malformed media file names, malicious web URLs, or crafted configuration files that the user interface processes during normal operation. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in software to execute malicious code, and specifically maps to the use of format string attacks as a method of code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-0254 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to the affected system, potentially elevating privileges, installing malware, or using the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within a network. The vulnerability affects systems running xine-ui versions prior to the patch release, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multimedia applications are commonly used. The attack surface is broad since the user interface processes various types of input from different sources, including local files, network streams, and user interactions with the application's error handling mechanisms. Security researchers have noted that format string vulnerabilities of this nature are particularly challenging to detect through automated scanning tools due to their reliance on specific input conditions and the complex interaction between the application's error handling and memory management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0254 should focus on immediate patching of the affected xine-ui components, which typically involves updating to version 0.9.25 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and sanitization of format string parameters. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of systems running xine-ui, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted media content. Additionally, security monitoring should include detection of unusual error handling patterns and input processing that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and adherence to security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices, which emphasize the need for proper input validation and the avoidance of dangerous functions like sprintf, fprintf, and related format string operations when dealing with untrusted data. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other multimedia applications and user interface components.