CVE-2011-5172 in StoryBoard Quick
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in StoryBoard Quick 6 Build 3786, and possibly StoryBoard Artist and StoryBoard Studio, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in the string element field in a frame xml file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-5172 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw affecting StoryBoard Quick version 6 Build 3786 and potentially other variants including StoryBoard Artist and StoryBoard Studio. This vulnerability resides within the XML parsing functionality of the StoryBoard software suite, specifically when processing frame elements containing string data. The flaw manifests when the application encounters a malformed xml file with an excessively long string value within the string element field of a frame, creating conditions that allow attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the StoryBoard application's xml parser. When parsing xml files containing frame elements with oversized string values, the software fails to properly validate the length of input data before copying it into fixed-size stack buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition enables attackers to overwrite return addresses and other critical stack data, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely through crafted xml files, eliminating the need for local access to the target system. According to CWE standards, this corresponds to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checks allow data to overwrite adjacent stack memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the target environment. Successful exploitation could enable adversaries to install malware, modify application behavior, or gain access to sensitive data processed by StoryBoard applications. The vulnerability affects multimedia and animation development environments where xml files are commonly exchanged, making it particularly concerning for organizations that process third-party content or collaborate with external partners. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability through social engineering campaigns, sending malicious xml files as attachments or embedding them in web content that users might inadvertently open with the affected software.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-5172 should focus on immediate software updates and input validation improvements. Organizations should prioritize applying vendor patches and updates to StoryBoard Quick 6 Build 3786 and related products, as these releases typically contain fixed buffer handling routines and enhanced input validation. Additionally, implementing xml file validation processes and restricting the processing of untrusted xml content can significantly reduce exploitation risk. Network-level controls such as xml firewalling and content filtering can provide additional protection layers. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving execution through libraries and malicious file handling, making it a potential entry point for broader attack chains. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized xml processing and establish monitoring for suspicious xml file access patterns.