CVE-2011-4857 in WinAmp
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the in_mod.dll plugin in Winamp before 5.623 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted song message data in an Impulse Tracker (IT) file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4857 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow affecting the in_mod.dll plugin within Winamp media player versions prior to 5.623. This flaw resides in the handling of song message data within Impulse Tracker IT files, creating a remote code execution vector that can be exploited by attackers who craft malicious IT file content. The vulnerability specifically impacts the plugin architecture of Winamp where third-party modules can be loaded to support various audio formats, with in_mod.dll serving as the plugin responsible for processing module-based audio formats including IT files.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the in_mod.dll plugin when processing song message data embedded in Impulse Tracker files. When Winamp encounters an IT file containing specially crafted message data, the plugin fails to properly validate the length or content of this data before attempting to copy it into fixed-size heap buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition occurs because the plugin allocates memory based on assumptions about data size that are subsequently violated when malicious data exceeds expected boundaries. The heap-based nature of the overflow means that memory corruption occurs in the heap memory region rather than the stack, making exploitation more complex but still highly effective for arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized access. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by distributing malicious IT files through various attack vectors including email attachments, compromised websites, or peer-to-peer networks where Winamp users might download and play media files. Once executed, the malicious code can perform actions ranging from privilege escalation to full system compromise, depending on the execution context and user privileges. The vulnerability affects a widely used media player application that was prevalent across many desktop systems, amplifying the potential attack surface and impact. This issue directly relates to CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow conditions, both of which are fundamental weaknesses in memory management that enable arbitrary code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4857 primarily involve immediate patching of Winamp installations to version 5.623 or later where the buffer overflow has been addressed through proper input validation and bounds checking. System administrators should also implement restrictive file type handling policies that prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious media files, particularly those from untrusted sources. Network-level defenses can include content filtering solutions that block or quarantine IT files from suspicious origins, while endpoint protection measures should focus on monitoring for unusual process behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of plugin security within multimedia applications and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through scripting, where the compromised system can be used to execute additional malicious payloads. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of untrusted media player plugins and regularly audit their software inventory to ensure all components are updated with the latest security patches.