CVE-2010-2439 in MoreAmp
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in MoreAmp allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long line in a song list (.maf file).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2439 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the MoreAmp media player software. This vulnerability specifically affects the handling of song list files with the .maf extension, where the application fails to properly validate the length of input data before processing. The flaw occurs during the parsing of playlist files, where an attacker can craft a malicious .maf file containing an excessively long line of data that exceeds the allocated stack buffer size. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, which is classified as a severe memory corruption issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires remote attackers to prepare a specially crafted .maf file that contains a buffer overflow payload. When the vulnerable MoreAmp application processes this malicious file, the excessive data overflows the designated stack buffer, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers. This memory corruption can be leveraged by attackers to redirect program execution flow and inject malicious code into the target system. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it can be delivered through various means including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious websites that trick users into opening the crafted playlist file. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to the T1203 technique of Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage client-side vulnerabilities to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-2439 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential full system compromise capabilities. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows unauthorized individuals to gain arbitrary code execution privileges within the context of the MoreAmp application, which typically runs with the same privileges as the user who launched the application. This means that if a user with administrative privileges opens the malicious .maf file, the attacker could potentially gain elevated system access. The vulnerability affects systems running vulnerable versions of MoreAmp, making it particularly concerning for organizations that have legacy media player installations or users who may unknowingly download and open malicious playlist files. The widespread use of media player applications in both personal and enterprise environments increases the potential attack surface for this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2439 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the vendor. Organizations should implement network-based controls such as application whitelisting to prevent execution of untrusted .maf files, while also deploying endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block malicious file content. System administrators should consider disabling the processing of external playlist files or implementing strict input validation controls within the media player applications. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of only opening playlist files from trusted sources and avoiding suspicious email attachments. From a security monitoring perspective, network administrators should implement intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to access or download malicious .maf files, while also monitoring for unusual application behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and proper buffer management in software development practices, aligning with security standards that emphasize defensive programming techniques to prevent memory corruption vulnerabilities.