CVE-2010-2996 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in RealNetworks RealPlayer 11.0 through 11.1 on Windows allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a malformed header in a RealMedia .IVR file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2996 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within RealNetworks RealPlayer software version 11.0 through 11.1 running on Microsoft Windows operating systems. This flaw manifests as an array index error that occurs when processing malformed headers within RealMedia .IVR files, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the media player's parsing routines, specifically when handling the metadata structures embedded within the .IVR file format. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious .IVR files containing specially designed headers that cause the application to access memory locations beyond the allocated array boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array indices, and represents a classic buffer overflow scenario where integer overflow or underflow conditions lead to memory corruption. When RealPlayer attempts to parse the malformed header data, the application fails to properly validate the array bounds before accessing memory locations, resulting in a situation where attacker-controlled data can overwrite critical memory segments including return addresses and function pointers. This particular implementation follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries leverage software vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code through manipulation of application parsing logic. The vulnerability affects systems where RealPlayer is installed and configured to automatically process or open .IVR files, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter malicious content through email attachments, web downloads, or instant messaging platforms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data theft. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected user, potentially leading to complete system control, persistent backdoor installation, or data exfiltration operations. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers need not have physical access to target systems, enabling large-scale attacks through automated scanning or targeted campaigns. Organizations running affected RealPlayer versions face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where users have elevated privileges or where the software is used to process untrusted media content from external sources. The vulnerability's presence in widely deployed media player software creates an extensive attack surface that security professionals must address through immediate patching or alternative security controls.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2996 should prioritize immediate remediation through official security updates provided by RealNetworks, as the vendor released patches specifically addressing this buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement network-based security controls including firewall rules that block access to known malicious domains and content repositories, while also deploying endpoint protection solutions with real-time monitoring capabilities. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can prevent unauthorized execution of vulnerable RealPlayer versions, and users should be educated about the risks of opening untrusted media files from unknown sources. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts, while maintaining comprehensive logging and monitoring of media file processing activities. Additionally, organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected RealPlayer versions and establish incident response procedures specifically addressing potential exploitation of this vulnerability. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patches in controlled environments before widespread deployment to ensure compatibility with existing business applications and workflows.