CVE-2012-0020 in Visio Viewer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Visio Viewer 2010 Gold and SP1 does not properly handle memory during the parsing of files, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted attributes in a Visio file, aka "VSD File Format Memory Corruption Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2012-0019, CVE-2012-0136, CVE-2012-0137, and CVE-2012-0138.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/20/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0020 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Visio Viewer 2010 Gold and Service Pack 1 implementations. This vulnerability specifically manifests during the parsing of Visio file format (.vsd files) and creates a condition where improper memory handling allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw exists in the way the viewer processes crafted attributes within Visio documents, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through email attachments or web downloads without user interaction.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory management during file parsing operations. When the Visio Viewer encounters specially crafted attributes within a Visio file, the application fails to properly allocate or manage memory resources, leading to buffer overflows or memory corruption conditions. This memory handling deficiency creates opportunities for attackers to inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an "Out-of-bounds Read" and specifically relates to improper memory handling during file format processing.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to enterprise environments where Visio files are commonly shared and opened. The remote code execution capability means that attackers can compromise systems simply by delivering a malicious Visio file through phishing campaigns or compromised websites. The vulnerability affects systems running Microsoft Visio Viewer 2010 and its service pack versions, making it particularly concerning for organizations that have not yet updated to newer versions. The attack vector requires no user interaction beyond opening the malicious file, which makes it highly effective in social engineering campaigns.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 "Exploitation for Client Execution" and T1059 "Command and Scripting Interpreter" within the MITRE ATT&CK framework. Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense including regular patch management, email filtering solutions, and user education programs to reduce exposure. The vulnerability requires immediate remediation through Microsoft security updates and should be prioritized alongside other critical vulnerabilities in the enterprise security posture. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional protection while patches are deployed. Organizations should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to Visio file exploitation attempts and maintain robust incident response procedures to address potential exploitation events.