CVE-2010-0529 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in QuickTime.qts in Apple QuickTime before 7.6.6 on Windows allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (application crash) via a PICT image with a BkPixPat opcode (0x12) containing crafted values that are used in a calculation for memory allocation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0529 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within Apple QuickTime's QuickTime.qts component on Windows systems. This vulnerability specifically affects QuickTime versions prior to 7.6.6 and stems from improper handling of PICT image files containing crafted BkPixPat opcodes. The flaw operates through a calculation error during memory allocation processes, creating conditions where maliciously constructed image data can trigger unauthorized code execution or system instability. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a heap-based buffer overflow, which occurs when data is written beyond the allocated buffer boundaries in heap memory, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious payloads.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves the processing of PICT (Picture) image format files, specifically targeting the BkPixPat opcode (0x12) which is used to define background patterns in graphics. When QuickTime encounters a crafted PICT image containing this opcode with manipulated values, the software performs calculations to determine memory allocation requirements for the pattern data. These calculations fail to properly validate input parameters, leading to an overflow condition where the allocated memory buffer cannot accommodate the requested data size. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to craft malicious PICT files that can be delivered through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious websites, without requiring user interaction beyond opening the image file.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application crashes to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects Windows systems running vulnerable versions of Apple QuickTime, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where QuickTime is commonly installed for multimedia support. The denial of service aspect manifests as application crashes that can be exploited for persistent disruption of services, while the remote code execution capability provides attackers with a direct path to system infiltration. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) as it enables attackers to execute malicious code through compromised applications and can be used to establish persistent access through command execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-0529 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates, with Apple releasing QuickTime 7.6.6 to address the heap overflow condition. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all systems running QuickTime are updated promptly. Additional protective measures include restricting user permissions when processing multimedia files, implementing network-based filters to block potentially malicious PICT files, and deploying application whitelisting solutions that prevent execution of untrusted QuickTime components. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual file processing patterns and memory allocation behaviors that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices, particularly in legacy multimedia processing components that may not have been designed with modern security considerations in mind. System administrators should also consider removing QuickTime from systems where it is not essential, as this reduces the attack surface and eliminates the risk of exploitation through this specific vulnerability.