CVE-2011-4259 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
Integer underflow in RealNetworks RealPlayer before 15.0.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted width value in an MPG file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4259 represents a critical integer underflow flaw discovered in RealNetworks RealPlayer software prior to version 15.0.0. This security weakness specifically affects the media player's handling of MPG file formats and creates a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the software's parser, where a crafted width value in an MPG file can trigger an integer underflow condition that ultimately leads to arbitrary code execution capabilities for attackers. The flaw exists in the application's memory management routines that process multimedia file headers and dimensions, particularly when parsing the width parameter within video frame specifications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic integer underflow scenario that occurs during the processing of MPG file structures. When RealPlayer encounters a specially crafted MPG file containing an invalid width value, the software's internal arithmetic operations fail to properly validate the input data, resulting in a situation where the width parameter underflows to a negative value. This mathematical error corrupts memory structures and can be exploited to manipulate the program's execution flow. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-191 as an Integer Underflow (Wrap or Wraparound) and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter. The exploitation process typically involves crafting a malicious MPG file that contains a width value specifically designed to cause the underflow condition, which then allows attackers to overwrite critical memory locations with malicious code.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-4259 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized access capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running RealPlayer, potentially leading to complete system compromise if the application runs with elevated permissions. The vulnerability affects a wide range of systems since RealPlayer was widely distributed and installed across various operating systems including windows platforms. Organizations and individuals who had older versions of RealPlayer installed were particularly vulnerable, as the flaw existed in the software's core parsing mechanisms and could be triggered through simple media file playback. The attack vector requires minimal user interaction, typically involving the automatic execution of the vulnerable software when a malicious MPG file is encountered or opened.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4259 primarily focus on immediate software updates and system hardening measures. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to RealPlayer version 15.0.0 or later, which includes patched implementations of the file parsing routines that properly validate width parameters and prevent integer underflow conditions. System administrators should implement strict file validation policies and consider disabling automatic playback of media files from untrusted sources. Network-level defenses can include implementing content filtering solutions that scan for potentially malicious media files and blocking suspicious file types from entering the network. Security professionals should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of RealPlayer to trusted environments only. Additional protective measures include regular vulnerability assessments of multimedia software installations and monitoring for unusual system behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation and proper integer handling in multimedia processing applications, highlighting the need for robust software security practices throughout the development lifecycle.