CVE-2011-0093 in Visio
Summary
by MITRE
ELEMENTS.DLL in Microsoft Visio 2002 SP2, 2003 SP3, and 2007 SP2 does not properly parse structures during the opening of a Visio file, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a file containing a malformed structure, aka "Visio Data Type Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0093 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Visio's ELEMENTS.DLL component, affecting versions 2002 SP2, 2003 SP3, and 2007 SP2. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and structure parsing mechanisms within the Visio file processing engine, creating a pathway for remote code execution through maliciously crafted Visio files. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the software attempts to parse malformed data structures during file opening operations, leading to unpredictable memory behavior that adversaries can exploit to gain unauthorized system access.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of data type structures within the Visio file format parser. When ELEMENTS.DLL encounters a Visio file containing malformed or improperly structured data elements, the parsing routine fails to validate input parameters adequately, resulting in memory corruption that can be leveraged for code execution. This memory corruption occurs during the file opening process when the application attempts to interpret and render complex data structures, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered simply by opening a malicious file. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations, both of which are common in memory corruption vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0093 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data breach scenarios. Attackers can craft Visio files containing specially designed malformed structures that, when opened by vulnerable systems, trigger the memory corruption flaw. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Visio files are frequently shared and opened across multiple systems, as it can serve as an initial access vector for broader network infiltration. The attack surface is amplified by the widespread use of Microsoft Visio in business environments, making this vulnerability attractive to threat actors seeking to establish persistent access or deploy additional malware payloads. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, as it enables adversaries to execute code on target systems through legitimate software applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0093 require a multi-layered approach combining immediate patching with operational security measures. Microsoft released security updates addressing this vulnerability in subsequent service packs, making patch management the primary defense mechanism. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies, particularly for Visio files received from external sources, and consider deploying sandboxing solutions to isolate Visio file processing. Network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs, while user education regarding suspicious file attachments remains crucial. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict Visio execution to trusted environments can provide an additional security barrier. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining current security patches and highlights the risks associated with legacy software versions that may no longer receive security updates, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-128 for vulnerability management and remediation.