CVE-2007-6683 in VLC
Summary
by MITRE
The browser plugin in VideoLAN VLC 0.8.6d allows remote attackers to overwrite arbitrary files via (1) the :demuxdump-file option in a filename in a playlist, or (2) a EXTVLCOPT statement in an MP3 file, possibly an argument injection vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-6683 affects the browser plugin component of VideoLAN VLC media player version 0.8.6d, presenting a critical security risk that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary file overwrite operations. This flaw exists within the handling of playlist files and media metadata processing, specifically targeting the demuxdump functionality and EXT VLC option parsing mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's processing pipeline, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate file operations through carefully crafted media files or playlist entries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves two primary attack vectors that exploit argument injection weaknesses in the VLC plugin's processing logic. The first vector utilizes the :demuxdump-file option within playlist filenames, where an attacker can craft a malicious playlist entry that specifies a target file path for overwrite operations. The second vector targets MP3 files containing EXTVLCOPT statements that can be parsed and executed by the vulnerable plugin, allowing attackers to inject command-line arguments that manipulate file system operations. Both attack paths demonstrate the core flaw in improper input validation and the absence of adequate path sanitization mechanisms.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant impact potential for remote attackers who can leverage it to overwrite critical system files, modify configuration data, or inject malicious content into the target system. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed through standard web browsing or media playback scenarios, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently play media files from untrusted sources. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to persistent compromise of affected systems, especially when combined with other attack vectors or when the target system has elevated privileges during media playback operations.
The security implications extend beyond simple file overwrites to encompass broader system compromise potential through the exploitation of argument injection patterns that align with CWE-77 and CWE-78 vulnerability classifications. This vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the execution and privilege escalation domains, as attackers can potentially leverage the file overwrite capability to establish persistent access or execute malicious code. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including plugin disabling, input validation enforcement, and user education regarding media file sourcing to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate plugin deactivation and comprehensive input validation implementation within the VLC plugin architecture. System administrators should ensure that VLC plugins are disabled by default and only enabled when absolutely necessary for specific use cases. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper argument sanitization and input validation in plugin architectures, particularly those handling user-supplied data from potentially untrusted sources. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be prioritized to address similar vulnerabilities in media processing components, as this flaw represents a common pattern of insufficient input validation in multimedia applications that affects numerous similar products across the industry.