CVE-2009-1022 in GOM Encoder
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the Preview/ Set Segment function in Gretech GOMlab GOM Encoder 1.0.0.11 and earlier allows user-assisted remote attackers to cause a denial of service (memory corruption and application crash) or execute arbitrary code via a long text field in a subtitle (.srt) file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1022 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in the Gretech GOMlab GOM Encoder software version 1.0.0.11 and earlier. This flaw exists within the Preview/Set Segment function of the application, which processes subtitle files in the .srt format. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a heap-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory boundaries. The issue manifests when the application processes a maliciously crafted subtitle file containing an excessively long text field that exceeds the buffer capacity allocated for subtitle content processing.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through user-assisted remote attack vectors where an attacker can craft a specially formatted .srt file containing oversized text fields that trigger memory corruption during the preview or segment setting operations. When the vulnerable application attempts to process such malformed subtitle data, it fails to validate the length of text fields before copying them into fixed-size buffers allocated on the heap. This buffer overflow condition results in memory corruption that can manifest as application crashes or more severe consequences including arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered remotely through malicious subtitle files delivered via email attachments, web downloads, or other means of file distribution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable remote code execution within the context of the user running the vulnerable GOM Encoder application. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute malicious code on targeted systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects users who process subtitle files from untrusted sources, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multimedia content processing is common. According to ATT&CK framework category T1203, this vulnerability could be used for privilege escalation or lateral movement if the application runs with elevated privileges. The heap corruption can cause unpredictable behavior including application crashes, system instability, and potential data loss during subtitle processing operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the GOM Encoder application to version 1.0.0.12 or later, which contains the necessary buffer overflow protections. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies for subtitle files, particularly those received from external sources, and consider deploying sandboxing techniques for processing untrusted multimedia content. Network administrators should monitor for suspicious file transfers and implement endpoint protection measures to prevent execution of malicious subtitle files. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of processing untrusted multimedia content and the importance of keeping software updated. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in multimedia processing applications, with recommendations aligning with industry best practices for secure coding standards and memory safety protocols.