CVE-2009-1627 in Streaming Download Project
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Streaming Download Project (SDP) Downloader 2.3.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long .asf URL in the HREF attribute of a REF element in a .asx file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1627 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the Streaming Download Project (SDP) Downloader version 2.3.0. This flaw resides in the application's handling of media file references within .asx playlist files, specifically when processing the HREF attribute of REF elements. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied URLs before copying them into fixed-size stack buffers. The attack vector requires a remote attacker to craft a malicious .asx file containing an overly long .asf URL within the HREF attribute of a REF element, which when processed by the vulnerable downloader application, triggers the buffer overflow condition. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental weakness in software design where data is written beyond the bounds of a stack-allocated buffer, potentially corrupting adjacent memory locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain complete control over the affected system running the SDP Downloader application. When the buffer overflow occurs, it can overwrite critical program execution data including return addresses, stack canaries, and function pointers, enabling attackers to redirect program flow to malicious code injected into the buffer. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through web-based attack vectors, where users might unknowingly download and process malicious .asx files from compromised websites or email attachments. The attack scenario typically involves social engineering tactics where victims are诱导ed to click on links or download files that contain the maliciously crafted playlist files. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it targets a downloadable application that processes external media references.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2009-1627 requires careful crafting of the malicious .asx file structure to ensure that the buffer overflow occurs at a predictable location within the stack memory layout. Attackers must account for stack alignment, padding, and the specific memory layout of the vulnerable application to successfully inject and execute their payload. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the importance of implementing robust bounds checking mechanisms in applications that process external input data. Security researchers have noted that the vulnerability's exploitation is relatively straightforward once an attacker has identified a target system running the vulnerable version of SDP Downloader, as the application's failure to validate input length before buffer operations creates a predictable attack surface. Organizations should consider implementing network-based protections such as intrusion prevention systems and web application firewalls to detect and block malicious .asx file content, while also ensuring that all systems have up-to-date security patches and that users are educated about the risks of downloading content from untrusted sources. The vulnerability also underscores the need for proper software security design principles, including the principle of least privilege, input validation, and secure coding practices that prevent buffer overflow conditions from occurring in the first place.