CVE-2008-3465 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in an API in GDI in Microsoft Windows 2000 SP4, XP SP2 and SP3, Server 2003 SP1 and SP2, Vista Gold and SP1, and Server 2008 allows context-dependent attackers to cause a denial of service or execute arbitrary code via a WMF file with a malformed file-size parameter, which would not be properly handled by a third-party application that uses this API for a copy operation, aka "GDI Heap Overflow Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/17/2025
The CVE-2008-3465 vulnerability represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting the Graphics Device Interface GDI API in multiple Microsoft Windows operating systems including Windows 2000 SP4, XP SP2 and SP3, Server 2003 SP1 and SP2, Vista Gold and SP1, and Server 2008. This vulnerability specifically targets the handling of WMF (Windows Metafile) files during copy operations, creating a significant security risk that can be exploited by context-dependent attackers. The flaw resides in how the GDI subsystem processes malformed file-size parameters within WMF files, leading to improper memory management that can result in either denial of service or arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, though the specific implementation involves heap memory corruption that makes it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where third-party applications may be leveraging the vulnerable GDI API for image processing operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental memory management practices within Windows GDI operations, particularly when applications process WMF files through copy functions that utilize the vulnerable API. When a malformed WMF file containing an improperly sized parameter is processed, the GDI subsystem fails to properly validate the buffer boundaries during memory allocation, leading to heap corruption that can be leveraged by attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of heap overflow is particularly insidious because it can be triggered through seemingly benign file operations, making it difficult to detect and prevent. The vulnerability requires a specific attack scenario where a third-party application that incorporates GDI functionality for image handling processes the malicious WMF file, typically through copy operations that initiate the vulnerable code path. The attack vector is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, though the initial exploitation typically occurs through file-based delivery methods.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to encompass full system compromise capabilities when exploited successfully. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the compromised application, potentially leading to complete system takeover when the vulnerable application runs with elevated permissions. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Windows operating systems, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where legacy systems may be running unsupported versions. Organizations with third-party applications that process image files or utilize GDI for graphics operations are at significant risk, as these applications may inadvertently trigger the vulnerability when processing malicious WMF files. The exploitability is enhanced by the fact that WMF files are commonly used in email attachments, web downloads, and file sharing scenarios, providing multiple attack vectors for threat actors to deliver malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3465 should focus on both immediate patching and operational security measures to reduce attack surface. Microsoft released security updates for all affected operating systems, and organizations should prioritize applying these patches to eliminate the vulnerability at the source. Additionally, implementing strict file type validation and content filtering for WMF files can significantly reduce risk exposure, particularly in environments where third-party applications process such files. Network-based protections such as email filtering and web proxy configurations can prevent malicious WMF files from reaching end users, while application whitelisting can restrict which applications can process image files through potentially vulnerable GDI APIs. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual GDI API usage patterns and file processing activities that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in system APIs, emphasizing that even fundamental system components can contain critical flaws that require ongoing security assessment and remediation efforts. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to prevent users from inadvertently executing malicious WMF files through social engineering attacks that exploit this vulnerability.