CVE-2008-1015 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the data reference atom handling in Apple QuickTime before 7.4.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted movie.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-1015 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Apple QuickTime media player software affecting versions prior to 7.4.5. This issue specifically targets the data reference atom handling mechanism, which is a fundamental component of the QuickTime file format used for storing metadata and references to media data within movie files. The buffer overflow occurs when the application processes malformed data reference atoms embedded within QuickTime movie files, creating a condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the QuickTime parser. When a maliciously crafted movie file containing oversized or malformed data reference atoms is processed, the application fails to properly bounds-check the data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition allows an attacker to overwrite critical memory locations including return addresses, function pointers, or other control data structures. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through remote execution scenarios, meaning attackers can deliver malicious QuickTime files via web pages, email attachments, or file sharing networks without requiring local system access.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to end users who may inadvertently encounter malicious QuickTime files while browsing the internet or opening email attachments. The exploitability of this flaw means that successful attacks can result in complete system compromise, allowing remote code execution with the privileges of the user running the QuickTime player. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors on affected systems. The impact extends beyond individual users to enterprise environments where QuickTime may be widely deployed, potentially enabling large-scale compromise of organizational networks through targeted attacks.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries exploit software vulnerabilities to gain remote access. Organizations should prioritize immediate patch deployment to address this vulnerability, as Apple released QuickTime 7.4.5 specifically to remediate this issue. Additional mitigations include implementing strict file validation policies, disabling QuickTime plugin execution in web browsers, and employing network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify malicious QuickTime file patterns. Security teams should also consider user education regarding the dangers of opening untrusted media files and maintain comprehensive monitoring for suspicious QuickTime-related network activity or file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.