CVE-2008-4558 in VLC Media Player
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in VLC media player 0.9.2 allows remote attackers to overwrite arbitrary memory and execute arbitrary code via an XSPF playlist file with a negative identifier tag, which passes a signed comparison.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4558 represents a critical memory corruption flaw in VLC media player version 0.9.2 that stems from an array index error in the playlist parsing mechanism. This issue specifically affects the handling of XSPF (XML Shareable Playlist Format) playlist files, which are commonly used for organizing and sharing multimedia content across various media players. The flaw manifests when the player encounters an XSPF file containing a negative identifier tag value, which triggers a dangerous signed comparison operation that ultimately leads to unauthorized memory overwrite conditions.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in how VLC processes the identifier field within XSPF playlist files during playlist parsing. When the player encounters a negative integer value in the identifier tag, the software performs a signed comparison that fails to properly validate the array bounds. This comparison error allows attackers to manipulate the playlist parsing logic in such a way that array indices become negative values, which subsequently results in memory being overwritten at arbitrary locations. The vulnerability specifically relates to CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array indices, and CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write conditions. The flaw essentially creates a scenario where an attacker-controlled input can directly influence memory layout and execution flow.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents a significant threat to users who may unknowingly open maliciously crafted XSPF playlist files. Attackers can construct specially formatted playlist files that, when loaded by the vulnerable VLC player, will trigger the memory corruption condition and allow for arbitrary code execution. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers can deliver malicious playlists through various channels including email attachments, web downloads, or even through compromised websites that serve these files. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1193, which covers Spearphishing Attachment, and T1059, which covers Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it provides a mechanism for executing arbitrary code on target systems. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially allow for privilege escalation or system compromise, particularly when users with elevated privileges open the malicious playlist files.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal user interaction, as simply opening the malicious playlist file within VLC will trigger the exploit. This makes it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently open playlist files from untrusted sources or when the player is used in automated contexts. The memory corruption resulting from this flaw can be leveraged to execute malicious payloads such as shellcode, which may establish reverse shells or download additional malware components. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability was present in a widely distributed media player version, making it a significant concern for organizations that may have legacy systems running vulnerable versions. The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate patching to the latest stable version of VLC media player, as well as implementing network-based controls to prevent access to known malicious playlist files. Additionally, user education regarding the dangers of opening untrusted playlist files and implementing application whitelisting policies can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts.