CVE-2011-0694 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
RealNetworks RealPlayer 11.0 through 11.1, SP 1.0 through 1.1.5, and 14.0.0 through 14.0.1, and Enterprise 2.0 through 2.1.4, uses predictable names for temporary files, which allows remote attackers to conduct cross-domain scripting attacks and execute arbitrary code via the OpenURLinPlayerBrowser function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0694 affects multiple versions of RealNetworks RealPlayer software including versions 11.0 through 11.1, SP 1.0 through 1.1.5, 14.0.0 through 14.0.1, and Enterprise 2.0 through 2.1.4. This security flaw resides in the OpenURLinPlayerBrowser function which handles URL processing within the media player application. The core issue stems from the predictable naming convention used for temporary files created during the processing of web content, creating a significant attack surface that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability specifically targets the way the application generates temporary file names, making it possible for attackers to anticipate and manipulate these file paths during cross-domain scripting operations. This predictable file naming behavior violates fundamental security principles and creates opportunities for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution within the context of the user's session.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through cross-domain scripting attacks that leverage the predictable temporary file names to execute malicious code on vulnerable systems. When RealPlayer processes a URL through the OpenURLinPlayerBrowser function, it creates temporary files with easily guessable names that can be manipulated by remote attackers. This weakness allows adversaries to place malicious content in specific locations where the application will execute it as part of normal operation. The vulnerability can be classified under CWE-330 as the use of weak random number generators or predictable sequences in security-critical contexts, specifically manifesting in predictable temporary file names. Attackers can exploit this by crafting specially designed web content or URLs that, when processed by the vulnerable RealPlayer version, will create temporary files in predictable locations and subsequently execute malicious payloads. The attack vector primarily involves web-based exploitation where attackers can leverage the browser's cross-domain scripting capabilities to manipulate the temporary file creation process and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running RealPlayer.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0694 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential full system compromise and persistent threats. When successfully exploited, this vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The cross-domain scripting capability means that attackers can leverage existing web browsing sessions to deliver malicious payloads without requiring additional user interaction or system access. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through web browsers and other applications that invoke RealPlayer's functionality, making it difficult to contain and prevent. The attack can result in data theft, system modification, malware installation, and privilege escalation to system administrator levels. Organizations using affected RealPlayer versions face significant risk exposure, especially in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently visit malicious websites or receive compromised email attachments containing links to exploit this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0694 should prioritize immediate software updates and patches provided by RealNetworks to address the predictable temporary file naming issue. System administrators should implement network-based protections including firewall rules that block access to known malicious domains and content delivery networks that may host exploit code. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can prevent execution of untrusted code by restricting RealPlayer to only process content from trusted sources. Additionally, users should be educated about avoiding suspicious websites and email attachments that may contain malicious links designed to exploit this vulnerability. Network segmentation and user privilege management should be implemented to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems that monitor for patterns consistent with exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patches in controlled environments before widespread deployment to ensure compatibility with existing systems and applications that depend on RealPlayer functionality. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous temporary file creation patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.