CVE-2007-6166 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Apple QuickTime before 7.3.1, as used in QuickTime Player on Windows XP and Safari on Mac OS X, allows remote Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) servers to execute arbitrary code via an RTSP response with a long Content-Type header.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-6166 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in Apple QuickTime software versions prior to 7.3.1. This vulnerability affects both QuickTime Player on Windows XP systems and Safari browser on Mac OS X platforms, creating a significant security risk for users of these applications. The flaw specifically manifests when these applications process RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol) responses, particularly those containing excessively long Content-Type headers that exceed the allocated buffer space.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the QuickTime handling mechanism for RTSP protocol responses. When a malicious RTSP server sends a response containing a Content-Type header that surpasses the predetermined buffer limits, the application fails to properly check the header length before copying it into memory. This results in a classic stack buffer overflow condition where the excess data overwrites adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses and control data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which directly enables attackers to manipulate program execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems without requiring user interaction. An attacker controlling an RTSP server can craft malicious responses that trigger the buffer overflow during normal media playback operations, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) and demonstrates how network-based attacks can leverage protocol handling flaws to achieve remote code execution. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through standard web browsing activities or media playback scenarios, making it difficult for users to protect themselves.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of QuickTime software to version 7.3.1 or later, which contains the necessary buffer overflow protections and input validation improvements. System administrators should also implement network-level filtering to restrict RTSP traffic where possible, particularly in environments where such protocols are not required. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and memory management in multimedia applications, as well as the necessity of regular security updates. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual RTSP traffic patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for robust software security practices in multimedia frameworks that handle network-based content processing.