CVE-2009-0221 in PowerPoint
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2002 SP3 and 2003 SP3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a PowerPoint file containing a crafted record type for "collaboration information for different slides" that contains a field that specifies a large number of records, which triggers an under-allocated buffer and a heap-based buffer overflow, aka "Integer Overflow Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0221 represents a critical integer overflow flaw in Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2002 SP3 and 2003 SP3 applications. This vulnerability specifically targets the handling of collaboration information records within PowerPoint files, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The flaw manifests when PowerPoint processes a specially crafted presentation file containing malformed collaboration data that specifies an excessively large number of records. The underlying technical mechanism involves the application's failure to properly validate integer values during the parsing of these collaboration records, leading to an arithmetic overflow condition that results in improper buffer allocation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's insufficient input validation mechanisms when processing PowerPoint file structures. When the collaboration information record type contains a field specifying an excessive number of records, the integer overflow occurs during the calculation of buffer sizes needed to store this data. This overflow condition causes the application to allocate an undersized buffer in memory, which subsequently leads to a heap-based buffer overflow when the malformed data is written beyond the allocated memory boundaries. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-190 as an integer overflow condition, specifically involving the failure to check for integer overflow during arithmetic operations that determine buffer sizes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems with the privileges of the user running PowerPoint. Attackers can craft malicious PowerPoint files that, when opened by an unsuspecting user, trigger the integer overflow condition and subsequently allow for code injection attacks. The heap-based buffer overflow creates opportunities for attackers to overwrite critical memory structures, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where users frequently open PowerPoint files from untrusted sources, making it a significant concern for enterprise security.
The attack vector for CVE-2009-0221 operates through social engineering techniques, where attackers distribute malicious PowerPoint files through email attachments, compromised websites, or infected removable media. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in corporate environments where PowerPoint files are commonly shared and opened by multiple users. Security researchers have mapped this vulnerability to ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation of software vulnerabilities, and T1059, which involves command and script interpreter execution. Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense including regular patch management, email filtering solutions, and user education programs to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment for Microsoft Office 2002 SP3 and 2003 SP3 installations, as Microsoft released security updates specifically addressing this integer overflow condition. Network administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict the execution of PowerPoint files from untrusted sources, while also deploying intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious file access patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and integer overflow protection in software development practices, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing and code review processes. Organizations should also establish incident response procedures specifically designed to handle such memory corruption vulnerabilities, ensuring rapid identification and remediation of affected systems.