CVE-2010-3749 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
The browser-plugin implementation in RealNetworks RealPlayer 11.0 through 11.1 and RealPlayer SP 1.0 through 1.1 allows remote attackers to arguments to the RecordClip method, which allows remote attackers to download an arbitrary program onto a client machine, and execute this program, via a " (double quote) in an argument to the RecordClip method, aka "parameter injection."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3749 represents a critical security flaw in RealNetworks RealPlayer software versions 11.0 through 11.1 and RealPlayer SP 1.0 through 1.1. This issue resides within the browser plugin implementation and specifically targets the RecordClip method functionality. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate the plugin's behavior through parameter injection techniques, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution on client systems. The vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input validation and sanitization within the plugin's method handling mechanism, allowing malicious actors to inject dangerous parameters that bypass normal security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of input parameters passed to the RecordClip method within the RealPlayer browser plugin. When attackers provide specially crafted arguments containing double quotes, the plugin fails to properly sanitize these inputs before processing them. This parameter injection allows the attacker to manipulate the execution flow of the plugin, effectively enabling the download and execution of arbitrary programs on the victim's machine. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the trust relationship between the browser and the installed plugin, making it particularly dangerous as users may not be aware of the malicious activity occurring in the background.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3749 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass a complete compromise of client systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to download and execute malware, backdoors, or other malicious software without user interaction or awareness. The vulnerability affects users who have the affected RealPlayer versions installed in their browsers, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of RealPlayer software. The attack vector requires only a malicious web page or content that triggers the vulnerable plugin, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-74, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements in output used by a downstream component, and represents a classic example of command injection in plugin environments.
The exploitation of this vulnerability follows established attack patterns documented in various threat intelligence sources and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and script injection. Attackers can craft web pages containing malicious parameters that, when processed by the vulnerable plugin, result in the automatic download and execution of payloads. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through normal web browsing activities without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a compromised website. Organizations and individuals using affected RealPlayer versions face significant risk of compromise, as the vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including drive-by downloads, malicious advertisements, or compromised websites that embed the vulnerable plugin functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3749 primarily focus on immediate software updates and patch management procedures. Users should immediately upgrade to patched versions of RealPlayer software, as RealNetworks released updates addressing this vulnerability. System administrators should implement network-level controls to block access to known malicious domains and monitor for suspicious plugin activity. Browser security configurations should be reviewed to ensure that plugins are properly sandboxed and that unnecessary plugin functionality is disabled. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that include plugin whitelisting, network monitoring, and user education about the risks of visiting untrusted websites. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application control policies that prevent execution of unknown or untrusted programs, which can provide additional protection against exploitation attempts.