CVE-2011-0257 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Integer signedness error in Apple QuickTime before 7.7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (application crash) via a crafted PnSize opcode in a PICT file that triggers a stack-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0257 represents a critical integer signedness error within Apple QuickTime software versions prior to 7.7. This flaw exists in the handling of PICT file format processing, specifically when encountering a crafted PnSize opcode. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-190, which deals with integer overflow and underflow conditions, and more specifically aligns with CWE-121, stack-based buffer overflow, due to the exploitable nature of the memory corruption. The issue stems from improper validation of integer values during the parsing of PICT file structures, where signed integer variables are used in contexts that expect unsigned values, creating a scenario where malicious input can bypass intended bounds checking mechanisms.
The technical execution of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker crafts a malicious PICT file containing a specially formatted PnSize opcode that triggers a stack-based buffer overflow. This overflow happens because the application fails to properly validate the size parameter associated with the PnSize opcode, allowing an attacker to specify an oversized buffer size that exceeds the allocated stack space. When the QuickTime player processes this malformed file, the integer signedness error causes the application to allocate insufficient memory for the buffer, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code or cause application crashes. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through web-based attacks or email attachments, making it an attractive target for remote exploitation campaigns.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0257 extends beyond simple application instability to encompass full system compromise potential. When successfully exploited, this vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running QuickTime, which typically corresponds to the local user account. The attack surface includes any system running vulnerable QuickTime versions, particularly affecting enterprise environments where QuickTime is commonly used for multimedia content delivery. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1203, Exploitation for Client Execution, and T1059, Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers can leverage the buffer overflow to inject and execute malicious payloads. The vulnerability also aligns with T1190, Exploit Public-Facing Application, since it can be delivered through web browsers or email clients that support QuickTime content rendering.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0257 require immediate patch deployment as the primary defense mechanism, with Apple releasing QuickTime 7.7 to address the integer signedness error and buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to systems running vulnerable QuickTime versions and deploy web application firewalls to filter potentially malicious PICT file content. Security teams should also consider disabling QuickTime plugin support in web browsers where possible, as this reduces attack surface exposure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and integer handling in multimedia processing libraries, as highlighted by industry best practices in secure coding standards. Regular security assessments should include verification of QuickTime versions and configuration settings to ensure that systems remain protected against similar vulnerabilities in the future.