CVE-2007-5400 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the Shockwave Flash (SWF) frame handling in RealNetworks RealPlayer 10.5 Build 6.0.12.1483 might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted SWF file.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5400 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the Shockwave Flash frame handling mechanism of RealNetworks RealPlayer version 10.5 Build 6.0.12.1483. This flaw exists in the software's processing of SWF files, which are used for multimedia content delivery on the web. The vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking when handling Flash frame data structures, creating an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled input can overwrite adjacent memory locations in the heap. The flaw specifically manifests during the parsing of SWF file frames, which are fundamental components of Flash content that define visual elements, animations, and interactive features. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, which is classified as a serious memory safety issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious SWF file is opened within the vulnerable RealPlayer application. The attacker crafts a specially designed SWF file containing malformed frame data that, when processed by the RealPlayer, causes the heap memory to be overwritten beyond its allocated bounds. This memory corruption can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow, potentially allowing an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable software. The attack vector is remote, meaning that an attacker can deliver the malicious SWF file through web browsers or email attachments without requiring local access to the target system. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through web-based attacks, making it accessible to a wide range of potential victims who may simply browse to compromised websites or open malicious email attachments containing the SWF file.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-5400 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. The vulnerability affects users of RealPlayer 10.5, which was widely distributed and used across various operating systems including Windows, Macintosh, and Linux platforms. This broad compatibility increases the attack surface significantly, as the vulnerability can be exploited across multiple environments. The exploitation process typically involves crafting a SWF file that triggers the buffer overflow condition when the player attempts to render the Flash content. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access to compromised systems, potentially leading to data theft, system control, or further network infiltration. The vulnerability also demonstrates the inherent risks associated with multimedia player software, which often processes untrusted content with minimal sandboxing or security restrictions, creating potential attack vectors that can be exploited across multiple threat models.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5400 involve both immediate and long-term approaches to address the vulnerability. The most effective immediate mitigation is to uninstall or disable RealPlayer 10.5, as the vulnerability is specific to this version and subsequent releases addressed the heap overflow issue through proper bounds checking. Users should also implement web filtering solutions that can block or quarantine SWF content from untrusted sources, reducing the likelihood of encountering malicious Flash files. Network administrators should consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify and block known malicious SWF file patterns. Additionally, users should be educated about the dangers of opening unknown SWF files and should avoid visiting websites known to host malicious content. The vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping multimedia software updated and demonstrates the necessity of application sandboxing techniques that isolate potentially dangerous content processing from the core operating system. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that prevent execution of unauthorized Flash player components, aligning with security frameworks that emphasize the principle of least privilege and defense in depth strategies.