CVE-2010-3000 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple integer overflows in the ParseKnownType function in RealNetworks RealPlayer 11.0 through 11.1 and RealPlayer SP 1.0 through 1.1.4 on Windows allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted (1) HX_FLV_META_AMF_TYPE_MIXEDARRAY or (2) HX_FLV_META_AMF_TYPE_ARRAY data in an FLV file.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3000 represents a critical security flaw in RealNetworks RealPlayer software versions 11.0 through 11.1 and RealPlayer SP 1.0 through 1.1.4 running on Windows operating systems. This vulnerability stems from integer overflows occurring within the ParseKnownType function, which processes media file metadata during playback operations. The flaw specifically affects the handling of FLV (Flash Video) files and their associated metadata structures, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted media content. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-190, which encompasses integer overflow conditions that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of specific AMF (Action Message Format) data types within FLV files, namely HX_FLV_META_AMF_TYPE_MIXEDARRAY and HX_FLV_META_AMF_TYPE_ARRAY. When RealPlayer attempts to parse these crafted data structures, the integer overflow conditions cause unexpected behavior in memory allocation and buffer handling. The overflow occurs during the processing of array metadata, where the application fails to properly validate the size parameters before allocating memory buffers. This failure creates opportunities for attackers to craft malicious FLV files that can trigger buffer overflows, leading to memory corruption that adversaries can potentially exploit to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a remote exploitation vector that requires minimal user interaction beyond playing a maliciously crafted FLV file. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Windows systems where RealPlayer is installed, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where media playback is common. The exploitability factor is enhanced by the fact that FLV files are widely distributed across the internet, making this vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise systems through social engineering or automated attacks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation and code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3000 primarily focus on immediate software updates and system hardening measures. Organizations should prioritize patching affected RealPlayer installations with the latest security updates provided by RealNetworks, as these patches address the integer overflow conditions in the ParseKnownType function. Network administrators should consider implementing content filtering measures to prevent the automatic execution of FLV files, particularly in high-risk environments. Additional defensive measures include disabling RealPlayer's automatic playback of media content, implementing application whitelisting policies, and monitoring for unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and integer overflow protection in multimedia processing libraries, which should be addressed through secure coding practices and regular security assessments of media handling components.