CVE-2008-3021 in Office
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Office 2000 SP3, XP SP3, and 2003 SP2; Office Converter Pack; and Works 8 do not properly parse the length of a PICT file, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted PICT file with an invalid bits_per_pixel field, aka the "PICT Filter Parsing Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-3018.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2025
The CVE-2008-3021 vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow condition within Microsoft Office applications that process PICT (Picture) files through the Office Converter Pack and Works 8 software components. This vulnerability specifically affects Microsoft Office 2000 Service Pack 3, Office XP Service Pack 3, Office 2003 Service Pack 2, and the Office Converter Pack, creating a significant attack surface for remote code execution exploits. The flaw manifests when these applications parse PICT files that contain malformed data structures, particularly in the bits_per_pixel field, which triggers improper memory handling during file processing operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the PICT file parsing engine of Microsoft Office applications. When a maliciously crafted PICT file is processed, the application fails to properly validate the length field specification, allowing attackers to manipulate the bits_per_pixel parameter to exceed expected memory boundaries. This improper boundary checking creates a condition where memory allocation occurs based on invalid parameters, leading to buffer overflow scenarios that can be exploited to overwrite adjacent memory locations with attacker-controlled data. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through simple file attachment mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it represents a sophisticated attack vector that leverages the trust model inherent in document processing applications. Attackers can craft PICT files that appear legitimate to end users while containing malicious payloads designed to exploit the buffer overflow condition. The vulnerability's classification as a code execution flaw aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The attack surface is particularly concerning because Office applications are frequently used for document exchange, making this vulnerability exploitable through email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3021 should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as the vulnerability was addressed through official Microsoft security bulletins. Organizations should implement comprehensive email filtering solutions that scan for potentially malicious PICT files, particularly those with non-standard file extensions or embedded binary content. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can further reduce exposure by limiting the execution of Office applications in high-risk environments. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual file processing patterns and potential buffer overflow indicators during document parsing operations. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of maintaining updated security practices and implementing principle of least privilege access controls to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.