CVE-2008-1013 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Apple QuickTime before 7.4.5 enables deserialization of QTJava objects by untrusted Java applets, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted applet.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1013 represents a critical security flaw in Apple QuickTime software versions prior to 7.4.5 that fundamentally undermines the security boundaries of Java applet execution. This issue stems from the improper handling of QTJava objects during the deserialization process, creating an avenue for malicious actors to bypass security restrictions that normally protect users from untrusted code execution. The vulnerability specifically affects the integration between QuickTime and Java applets, where the QuickTime component fails to properly validate or sanitize data received from untrusted sources during the object deserialization phase.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the deserialization of QTJava objects within untrusted Java applets, which allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This flaw operates at the intersection of Java security mechanisms and QuickTime's object handling capabilities, creating a dangerous condition where maliciously crafted applets can leverage the QuickTime framework to gain elevated privileges or execute malicious payloads. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-502, which specifically addresses deserialization of untrusted data, making it a prime example of insecure deserialization vulnerabilities that have plagued software systems for decades. The attack vector requires a remote attacker to deliver a specially crafted Java applet that, when executed by a vulnerable QuickTime installation, triggers the deserialization process and subsequent arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including but not limited to arbitrary file manipulation, system command execution, and potential privilege escalation within the affected system. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the trust relationship between Java applets and QuickTime components, allowing attackers to execute code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable application. The attack surface is broadened by the fact that QuickTime was widely installed across various platforms, making this vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise large numbers of systems. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as the malicious code execution can be achieved through various scripting languages or system commands.
The remediation for this vulnerability requires immediate installation of Apple QuickTime 7.4.5 or later versions, which contain the necessary patches to address the deserialization flaw. Security administrators should prioritize updating all systems running vulnerable QuickTime versions and implement proper network segmentation to limit exposure to potentially malicious applets. Additional mitigations include disabling Java applet execution in QuickTime contexts, implementing network-based security controls such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, and conducting thorough security assessments of systems that may be exposed to untrusted Java content. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of Java applets to only trusted sources and regularly monitor for signs of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure deserialization practices, as highlighted by industry standards and best practices in software security development.