CVE-2007-4675 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the QuickTime VR extension 7.2.0.240 in QuickTime.qts in Apple QuickTime before 7.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a QTVR (QuickTime Virtual Reality) movie file containing a large size field in the atom header of a panorama sample atom.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4675 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting Apple QuickTime versions prior to 7.3, specifically within the QuickTime VR extension version 7.2.0.240. This flaw exists in the QuickTime.qts component and demonstrates a classic memory corruption vulnerability that can be exploited remotely to achieve arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation when processing QuickTime Virtual Reality movie files, particularly in how the software handles atom headers within panorama sample atoms. The heap-based nature of the overflow indicates that the vulnerable code manipulates heap-allocated memory without proper bounds checking, creating opportunities for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory regions and potentially control program execution flow.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the parsing of QTVR movie files where a maliciously crafted large size field in the atom header of a panorama sample atom triggers the buffer overflow condition. When QuickTime processes these malformed atom structures, the software fails to validate the size field against the actual available buffer space, allowing an attacker to write beyond the allocated heap memory boundaries. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Heap-based Buffer Overflow, which is categorized as a fundamental memory safety issue that has been consistently identified as a primary attack vector in numerous security incidents throughout the software industry. The flaw specifically affects the QuickTime VR extension's handling of panorama sample atoms, which are used to store virtual reality content that can be rendered and navigated within the QuickTime player environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides remote attackers with the capability to compromise systems running vulnerable versions of Apple QuickTime. Attackers can craft malicious QTVR movie files that, when opened by an unsuspecting user, will trigger the buffer overflow and potentially allow for complete system compromise. The remote exploitation capability makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it does not require local access or user interaction beyond opening the malicious file. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation for execution through remote code injection vulnerabilities, and demonstrates how attackers can leverage memory corruption flaws to establish persistent access to target systems. The vulnerability affects not only individual users but also organizations that may unknowingly distribute or serve these malicious files through web content or other delivery mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4675 primarily focus on updating to Apple QuickTime version 7.3 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the heap-based buffer overflow. System administrators should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive the security updates promptly. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network-based security controls such as content filtering and sandboxing mechanisms to prevent the execution of untrusted QuickTime content. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in memory management operations, reinforcing industry best practices outlined in standards such as the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and the CERT Secure Coding Standards. Organizations should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate similar memory corruption issues in their software environments, as the underlying principles of heap management and buffer overflow prevention remain critical aspects of secure software development practices.