CVE-2011-1426 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
The OpenURLInDefaultBrowser method in RealNetworks RealPlayer 11.0 through 11.1 and 14.0.0 through 14.0.2, and RealPlayer SP 1.0 through 1.1.5, launches a default handler for the filename specified in the first argument, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a .rnx filename corresponding to a crafted RNX file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1426 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within RealNetworks RealPlayer software across multiple versions. This vulnerability resides in the OpenURLInDefaultBrowser method which processes filename arguments passed to the application. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and improper handling of file associations, creating a dangerous attack vector that allows remote adversaries to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability affects RealPlayer versions 11.0 through 11.1, 14.0.0 through 14.0.2, and RealPlayer SP versions 1.0 through 1.1.5, indicating a widespread impact across the product line. The vulnerability is classified as a buffer overflow or command injection issue under CWE-78 and CWE-119 categories, representing a classic example of unsafe handling of external input that can be exploited through malicious file associations.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves crafting a malicious .rnx file that when processed by the vulnerable RealPlayer application, triggers the OpenURLInDefaultBrowser method to launch a default handler for the filename argument. This behavior creates a path traversal and command execution scenario where attackers can manipulate the application's file handling routines to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running RealPlayer. The vulnerability operates at the application level and leverages the system's default file association mechanisms to achieve code execution. Attackers can construct specially crafted RNX files that contain malicious commands or references to external resources that will be executed when the vulnerable method processes the filename argument. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage software vulnerabilities to execute malicious code on target systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data theft. When exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to gain arbitrary code execution capabilities on victim systems, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not need physical access to target systems, enabling widespread exploitation through web-based attacks or malicious file downloads. The affected versions represent a significant portion of RealPlayer's user base, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise and consumer environments where RealPlayer is commonly installed. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including web browsers, email attachments, or malicious websites that prompt users to open crafted RNX files, making it a persistent threat that requires immediate remediation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1426 should focus on immediate patching of affected RealPlayer versions, as well as network-level protections to prevent access to malicious content. System administrators should disable or restrict the execution of .rnx files and related file associations, implement application whitelisting policies, and monitor for suspicious file execution patterns. The vulnerability requires immediate attention as it represents a high-severity threat that can be exploited remotely without user interaction. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and firewall rules to limit access to RealPlayer functionality and implement security awareness training to educate users about the dangers of opening untrusted files. Regular vulnerability scanning and patch management processes should be enhanced to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other multimedia applications. Additionally, the use of sandboxing techniques and privilege separation can help limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts, though the most effective mitigation remains the immediate application of vendor patches and updates to eliminate the vulnerability at its source.