CVE-2010-3219 in Word
Summary
by MITRE
Array index vulnerability in Microsoft Word 2002 SP3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Word document that triggers memory corruption, aka "Word Index Parsing Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2021
The CVE-2010-3219 vulnerability represents a critical array index error in Microsoft Word 2002 Service Pack 3 that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted Word documents. This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-129 which specifically addresses improper validation of array indices, making it a classic example of buffer overread conditions that can lead to memory corruption. The flaw exists in the document parsing mechanism where Word fails to properly validate array bounds when processing certain elements within Word documents, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate memory structures through crafted input.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a user opens a specially crafted Word document that contains malformed array references in its internal structure. During the parsing process, Word attempts to access memory locations beyond the allocated array boundaries, causing unpredictable behavior that can be leveraged by attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code within the context of the user's session. This memory corruption typically manifests as stack or heap corruption that can be manipulated to redirect program execution flow, bypassing modern security protections like DEP and ASLR through carefully constructed payloads. The vulnerability specifically affects Microsoft Word 2002 SP3 and potentially other versions in the 2002 product line, making it a persistent threat in legacy environments where updates may not be applied.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations that still maintain Word 2002 installations, particularly in environments where users receive untrusted documents or where email filtering is insufficient. The remote exploitation capability means attackers can deliver malicious documents through email campaigns, web downloads, or file sharing platforms without requiring local access to target systems. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 which covers exploitation of remote services, and T1059 which covers command and control through application layer protocols. The attack chain typically involves social engineering to convince users to open malicious documents, followed by automatic execution of malicious code that can establish persistence, exfiltrate data, or provide a foothold for further compromise.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including mandatory updates to Microsoft Office 2002 SP3 or newer versions, deployment of Office macro security settings, and implementation of email filtering solutions that scan for suspicious document attachments. The recommended approach involves applying Microsoft security patches as soon as they become available, implementing strict document validation policies, and educating users about the dangers of opening untrusted Word documents. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional defense layers, while monitoring for unusual document opening patterns or memory access anomalies can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block malicious document parsing activities, as the vulnerability specifically targets the document parsing engine that is central to Microsoft Word's functionality.