CVE-2009-0566 in Office
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Office Publisher 2007 SP1 does not properly calculate object handler data for Publisher files, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted file in a legacy format that triggers memory corruption, aka "Pointer Dereference Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0566 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Office Publisher 2007 Service Pack 1 that stems from improper handling of object handler data in legacy file formats. This vulnerability specifically affects the way Publisher processes certain file structures that contain malformed object references, creating opportunities for remote code execution through crafted malicious files. The flaw manifests when the application attempts to dereference pointers to memory locations that have not been properly initialized or validated, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly validate object handler data within Publisher files, particularly those using legacy formats. When Publisher encounters a specially crafted file containing malformed object references, the application's memory management routines fail to properly handle the pointer dereference operations, resulting in memory corruption that can be leveraged by attackers. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability's classification as a pointer dereference issue aligns with common attack patterns documented in the ATT&CK framework under the technique of execution through memory corruption.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation capabilities to encompass significant security risks for organizations relying on Publisher 2007. Attackers can leverage this flaw by delivering malicious Publisher files through various attack vectors including email attachments, compromised websites, or malicious documents that users might open. The remote code execution capability means that successful exploitation could allow attackers to install malware, modify system configurations, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability's presence in a widely used productivity application like Publisher 2007 increases the potential attack surface significantly, as these files are commonly shared and opened across various network environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0566 should focus on immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as well as implementing administrative controls to reduce exposure. Organizations should disable the automatic opening of Publisher files in web browsers and email clients, implement strict file validation policies, and consider network-based protections such as content filtering and intrusion detection systems. The vulnerability's nature as a memory corruption issue makes it particularly susceptible to exploitation through social engineering campaigns that trick users into opening malicious Publisher files. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of Publisher applications in environments where the vulnerability cannot be immediately patched, aligning with ATT&CK mitigation strategies that emphasize reducing attack surface through access control measures and application hardening.