CVE-2010-2564 in Windows Movie Maker
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Microsoft Windows Movie Maker (WMM) 2.1, 2.6, and 6.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted project file, aka "Movie Maker Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2564 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Microsoft Windows Movie Maker versions 2.1, 2.6, and 6.0 that exposes systems to remote code execution and denial of service attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the handling of project files within the Windows Movie Maker application, creating a dangerous condition where malformed input can trigger memory corruption. The flaw stems from insufficient bounds checking during the processing of specially crafted project files, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious data. According to the CWE database, this vulnerability maps to CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient validation of input data leads to memory corruption. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a code injection technique under the T1059.007 sub-technique, specifically targeting application execution through malicious file manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when Windows Movie Maker processes a specially crafted project file that contains oversized data structures or malformed memory references. When the application attempts to load such a file, the buffer overflow condition manifests as memory corruption that can be exploited to redirect program execution flow. Attackers can leverage this flaw by constructing a project file that exceeds the allocated buffer size, causing the application to write beyond its intended memory boundaries. This memory corruption typically manifests as stack smashing or heap corruption, which can result in either arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the victim user or a complete application crash leading to denial of service. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because Windows Movie Maker was widely distributed and often used for creating multimedia content, making it an attractive target for exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-2564 extends beyond simple system compromise, as it represents a significant threat to user productivity and system integrity. When exploited, this vulnerability allows attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the Windows Movie Maker process, which typically runs with standard user privileges but can potentially escalate if the user has elevated permissions. The denial of service aspect of this vulnerability means that legitimate users cannot access their project files or use the application, causing operational disruption in environments where multimedia editing is common. Organizations using Windows Movie Maker in professional or educational settings face particular risk, as attackers could exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive multimedia content or disrupt critical workflows. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the target system, making it a significant threat in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently open malicious project files.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2564 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security enhancements. Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through security updates that included memory validation fixes and improved input handling within the Windows Movie Maker application. System administrators should ensure that all affected versions of Windows Movie Maker are updated with the latest security patches, which typically include stack canaries, improved buffer management, and enhanced input validation routines. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized software can prevent exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and user access controls should be employed to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while regular security awareness training can help users recognize and avoid potentially malicious project files. Organizations should also consider migrating to more modern multimedia editing solutions that have better security track records and more frequent security updates. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices, aligning with security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing buffer overflow exploits.