CVE-2011-4004 in WebEx Recording Format Player
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the ATAS32 processing functionality in the Cisco WebEx Recording Format (WRF) player T26 before SP49 EP40 and T27 before SP28 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted WRF file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4004 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Cisco WebEx Recording Format player software, specifically affecting the ATAS32 processing functionality. This issue impacts both T26 versions prior to SP49 EP40 and T27 versions prior to SP28, creating a significant security risk for users who process WebEx recording files. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the player's handling of WRF file structures, particularly when processing audio and video data streams.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs during the parsing of WRF files, where the ATAS32 processing component fails to properly validate the size and structure of incoming data buffers. When a maliciously crafted WRF file is processed, the attacker can manipulate the file's metadata or content to exceed the allocated buffer boundaries, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of unsafe memory handling in multimedia processing applications. The flaw enables attackers to inject and execute malicious code remotely through the simple act of opening a specially crafted WRF file, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted media content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond individual system compromise, as it affects enterprise environments where WebEx recordings are commonly used for collaboration and training purposes. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to systems, potentially leading to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or establishment of persistent backdoors. The remote execution capability means that victims need not interact with the malicious file beyond opening it, making this attack vector particularly stealthy and effective. Organizations using Cisco WebEx services are at risk of targeted attacks, especially in environments where users may inadvertently open malicious files from untrusted sources, and the vulnerability could be exploited through phishing campaigns or compromised collaboration platforms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4004 primarily involve applying the official Cisco security patches and updates that address the buffer overflow in the ATAS32 processing component. System administrators should immediately upgrade to the patched versions of T26 SP49 EP40 or T27 SP28, ensuring that all affected systems receive the necessary security updates. Network security controls should include implementing file filtering mechanisms to prevent the automatic execution of WRF files from untrusted sources, while endpoint protection solutions should be configured to scan and quarantine suspicious media files. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of opening unknown WRF files and the importance of verifying file sources can significantly reduce exploitation success rates. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation to limit the potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs, and establish monitoring procedures to detect anomalous behavior associated with code execution attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date multimedia processing software and highlights the risks associated with legacy systems that may not receive continued security support. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves exploitation of remote services, and represents a typical example of how multimedia applications can serve as attack vectors in enterprise security environments.