CVE-2009-0443 in Elecard AVC HD PLAYER
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Elecard AVC HD PLAYER 5.5.90116 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via an M3U file containing a long string in a URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/15/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0443 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in Elecard AVC HD PLAYER version 5.5.90116. This security weakness resides in the media player's handling of M3U playlist files, which are commonly used to store lists of media files and their associated URLs. The flaw occurs when the application processes a maliciously crafted M3U file containing an excessively long string within a URL field, causing the application to overwrite adjacent memory on the stack. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that has been consistently identified as one of the most prevalent attack vectors in software security.
The technical execution of this vulnerability involves the attacker crafting a specially formatted M3U file that contains a URL with an extended string length exceeding the allocated buffer space within the Elecard AVC HD PLAYER application. When the vulnerable player attempts to parse and process this malformed URL, the excessive data overflows the stack buffer and corrupts adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function parameters. This memory corruption enables remote attackers to manipulate the program's execution flow and potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the application. The attack requires no local access and can be initiated remotely through the delivery of the malicious M3U file, making it particularly dangerous for users who frequently access online media content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive information, or establish persistent backdoors on affected systems. The vulnerability affects users who are running Elecard AVC HD PLAYER version 5.5.90116 and encounter maliciously crafted M3U files through various delivery mechanisms including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious websites. The remote exploitation capability makes this vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors, as it requires minimal user interaction beyond opening the malicious file. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript and T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, highlighting the exploitation techniques used to achieve remote code execution through client-side applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0443 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by Elecard. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies for M3U and other playlist files, particularly those received from untrusted sources. Network administrators should consider implementing content filtering solutions that can detect and block potentially malicious M3U files based on their structure and content patterns. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of opening unknown or untrusted media playlist files and should be encouraged to keep their media player software updated. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper memory management in preventing buffer overflow exploits, reinforcing industry best practices outlined in secure coding standards such as those recommended by the CERT/CC and OWASP. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls that restrict the execution of untrusted media players or applications that handle playlist files.