CVE-2009-2011 in DX Studio Player
Summary
by MITRE
Worldweaver DX Studio Player 3.0.29.0, 3.0.22.0, 3.0.12.0, and probably other versions before 3.0.29.1, when used as a plug-in for Firefox, does not restrict access to the shell.execute JavaScript API method, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a .dxstudio file that invokes this method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2011 affects Worldweaver DX Studio Player versions prior to 3.0.29.1 when integrated as a Firefox plugin. This represents a critical security flaw that undermines the fundamental security boundaries of web browser environments. The affected software operates as a multimedia player capable of rendering .dxstudio files, which are typically used for interactive 3D content and animations. When functioning as a browser plugin, the software exposes a dangerous JavaScript API method that should be properly restricted.
The technical flaw resides in the improper implementation of access controls for the shell.execute JavaScript API method within the DX Studio Player plugin. This API method is designed to execute system commands on the underlying operating system, but the plugin fails to properly validate or restrict access to this functionality. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious .dxstudio files that invoke the shell.execute method, effectively bypassing the browser's security sandbox and gaining unauthorized command execution capabilities on the victim's system. The vulnerability exists specifically in the plugin's JavaScript interface implementation rather than the core player functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the user running the browser. This means that malicious actors could potentially install malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, or even establish persistent backdoors on affected systems. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages the trust relationship between the browser and the plugin, making it difficult for users to detect malicious activity. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the software, indicating a widespread exposure that would impact numerous users who had not yet updated to the patched version.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the affected software to version 3.0.29.1 or later, which contains the necessary access control fixes. System administrators should also implement network-level restrictions to prevent access to potentially malicious .dxstudio files and consider disabling the plugin entirely if it is not required for business operations. From a security architecture perspective, this vulnerability highlights the importance of proper API access control and the principle of least privilege. The issue aligns with CWE-250, which addresses execution of unauthorized code, and represents a clear violation of the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations should also consider implementing browser security policies that restrict plugin execution and monitor for unusual command execution patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.