CVE-2010-4388 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
The (1) Upsell.htm, (2) Main.html, and (3) Custsupport.html components in RealNetworks RealPlayer 11.0 through 11.1, RealPlayer SP 1.0 through 1.1.5, and RealPlayer Enterprise 2.1.2 and 2.1.3 allow remote attackers to inject code into the RealOneActiveXObject process, and consequently bypass intended Local Machine Zone restrictions and load arbitrary ActiveX controls, via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4388 represents a critical security flaw in RealNetworks RealPlayer software versions ranging from 11.0 through 11.1, along with RealPlayer SP 1.0 through 1.1.5 and RealPlayer Enterprise 2.1.2 and 2.1.3. This issue affects multiple components including Upsell.htm, Main.html, and Custsupport.html which are integral parts of the RealPlayer application architecture. The flaw resides in the improper handling of ActiveX control loading mechanisms within the RealOneActiveXObject process, creating a pathway for malicious code execution that circumvents fundamental security boundaries. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-94, which represents "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and specifically relates to the execution of arbitrary code through insecure ActiveX control loading processes. This weakness allows attackers to bypass the intended Local Machine Zone restrictions that normally prevent code execution from untrusted sources within the Windows security model.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the trust relationship between the web browser and ActiveX controls within the RealPlayer application environment. When these specific HTML components are loaded, they fail to properly validate or sanitize the ActiveX control references, enabling remote attackers to inject malicious ActiveX controls directly into the RealOneActiveXObject process. This process operates with elevated privileges typically reserved for local machine operations, allowing the injected code to execute with the same permissions as legitimate system components. The attack vector leverages the inherent trust model of ActiveX controls and the browser's integration with RealPlayer's media handling capabilities, creating a pathway for privilege escalation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer and can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website or opening a specially crafted media file.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code injection, as it fundamentally compromises the security boundaries established by the Windows security model. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with local machine privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The ability to bypass Local Machine Zone restrictions means that malicious code can access system resources, modify files, install additional malware, and perform actions that would normally be restricted to trusted applications. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and demonstrates how web-based applications can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to system resources. The attack scenario typically involves delivering malicious content through compromised websites or phishing campaigns, where users inadvertently trigger the vulnerable components through normal browsing activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4388 require immediate patching of affected RealPlayer versions and implementation of network-based security controls. Organizations should deploy the official security patches released by RealNetworks to address the ActiveX control loading vulnerabilities. Network administrators should implement content filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains and monitor for suspicious ActiveX control loading activities. The recommended approach includes disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers when browsing untrusted websites, implementing strict security policies for media player applications, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar issues. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and opening unknown media files. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict which ActiveX controls can be loaded and executed within the RealPlayer environment, thereby reducing the attack surface and limiting potential exploitation opportunities.