CVE-2010-0034 in PowerPoint
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2003 SP3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted PowerPoint document, aka "Office PowerPoint Viewer TextCharsAtom Record Stack Overflow Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/30/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0034 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2003 Service Pack 3 that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted PowerPoint presentation files. This vulnerability specifically affects the Office PowerPoint Viewer component and stems from improper handling of the TextCharsAtom record structure during document parsing operations. The flaw occurs when the application processes malformed presentation files containing oversized or improperly structured text data elements that exceed allocated stack buffer boundaries, creating conditions where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the fundamental principles of stack memory corruption as defined by CWE-121, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overflow a stack-based buffer and overwrite critical execution control data. The vulnerability manifests during the parsing of PowerPoint presentation files, particularly when the application encounters specially crafted TextCharsAtom records that contain excessive data payloads. This particular flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds writes that can occur when input validation fails to properly constrain buffer sizes, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited for arbitrary code execution. The attack vector requires remote delivery of a malicious PowerPoint document, typically through email attachments or web downloads, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users frequently interact with external content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain arbitrary code execution privileges on vulnerable systems, potentially enabling them to install backdoors, escalate privileges, or exfiltrate sensitive data from the compromised workstation. The vulnerability affects organizations running Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2003 SP3 across various Windows operating systems including Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, and Windows Vista, creating widespread exposure given the prevalence of this software version in corporate environments. The attack requires no user interaction beyond opening the malicious presentation file, making it particularly effective for social engineering campaigns where users might inadvertently open compromised documents. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes the use of malicious files to execute code, and represents a common entry point for initial access in targeted attacks against enterprise networks.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying Microsoft security patches, disabling automatic opening of PowerPoint files from untrusted sources, and implementing email filtering rules to block suspicious presentation file attachments. Network segmentation and endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor for suspicious file execution patterns, while user education programs should emphasize the dangers of opening unknown PowerPoint files. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing proper patch management procedures to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities. Security teams should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify systems running vulnerable Office versions and prioritize remediation efforts accordingly, as this particular flaw represents a well-documented and actively exploited vulnerability in the cybersecurity threat landscape.