CVE-2009-1645 in Easy RM-MP3 Converter
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in Mini-stream Easy RM-MP3 Converter 3.0.0.7 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) a long rtsp URL in a .ram file and (2) a long string in the HREF attribute of a REF element in a .asx file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1645 represents a critical security flaw in Mini-stream Easy RM-MP3 Converter version 3.0.0.7, specifically targeting stack-based buffer overflow conditions that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code remotely. This vulnerability affects two distinct input processing mechanisms within the media converter application, demonstrating the software's susceptibility to malformed input data that exceeds allocated buffer boundaries. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking in the parsing of media playlist files, creating exploitable conditions that can be leveraged by malicious actors to compromise systems running the affected software.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests through two primary attack vectors that exploit different file formats used in media streaming and playback. The first vector involves a lengthy rtsp URL embedded within a .ram file format, which when processed by the converter application, causes a stack buffer overflow due to insufficient bounds checking on the URL length parameter. The second vector targets the HREF attribute of REF elements within .asx files, where an excessively long string input triggers a similar buffer overflow condition. Both attack scenarios demonstrate the application's failure to properly validate input lengths before copying data into fixed-size stack buffers, creating opportunities for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations and potentially redirect program execution flow.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations and individual users who may unknowingly process maliciously crafted media playlist files. The remote code execution capability allows attackers to gain full control over affected systems, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects a media conversion tool that is commonly used for downloading and converting streaming media content, making it particularly dangerous as users may encounter malicious files during routine media processing activities. The exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond opening or processing the malicious files, making it particularly effective as a social engineering target.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow classification under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, specifically addressing weaknesses in memory management and input validation. This vulnerability also maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution and T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, as the successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on target systems. The attack surface extends beyond simple code execution to include potential privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms that attackers can leverage once initial access is achieved. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of broader security assessments, particularly in environments where media processing tools are commonly used or where users may encounter untrusted media content.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate software updates and patches provided by the vendor, along with network-level restrictions that prevent processing of untrusted media files. System administrators should implement input validation controls at network boundaries and consider sandboxing mechanisms for media processing applications. The vulnerability underscores the importance of regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs that can identify and remediate similar issues in legacy software systems. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of processing untrusted media content and implementing principle of least privilege access controls can significantly reduce the potential impact of such exploits. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect suspicious file processing activities that may indicate exploitation attempts.