CVE-2011-4496 in DTV Player
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Aviosoft DTV Player 1.0.1.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted .plf (aka playlist) file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4496 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Aviosoft DTV Player version 1.0.1.2 that exposes users to remote code execution risks. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the application's handling of playlist files with the .plf extension, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw specifically manifests when the player processes malformed playlist files, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations through buffer overflow techniques.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking permits memory corruption. When a malicious .plf file is loaded, the application fails to properly validate the length of data being read into fixed-size buffers, enabling attackers to craft payloads that exceed allocated memory boundaries. This memory corruption can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical program state information, potentially allowing remote attackers to redirect program execution flow to malicious code. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means attackers can deliver malicious playlist files through various vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious websites without requiring local system access.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-4496 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise when exploited successfully. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain full control over the affected system, potentially leading to data theft, system monitoring, or use as a launch point for further attacks within a network. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that many users may unknowingly download and execute malicious playlist files from untrusted sources, making this vulnerability highly exploitable in real-world scenarios. Organizations using Aviosoft DTV Player are particularly vulnerable since this player is often used for media playback in both personal and enterprise environments, increasing the potential attack surface.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the affected software to address the buffer overflow condition through proper bounds checking and input validation. System administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable systems, while also deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve execution of malicious code through the compromised application. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of untrusted playlist files and conduct regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other media player applications. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of executing unknown playlist files and maintaining current software versions serves as an important complementary security measure to reduce overall risk exposure.