CVE-2012-2406 in RealPlayer
Summary
by MITRE
RealNetworks RealPlayer before 15.0.4.53, and RealPlayer SP 1.0 through 1.1.5, does not properly parse ASMRuleBook data in RealMedia files, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2406 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in RealNetworks RealPlayer software versions prior to 15.0.4.53 and RealPlayer SP versions 1.0 through 1.1.5. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's handling of ASMRuleBook data structures embedded within RealMedia files. The flaw manifests when the media player attempts to parse maliciously crafted media files that contain oversized or malformed ASMRuleBook data, creating opportunities for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability specifically affects the parser responsible for processing RealMedia file formats, which are commonly distributed through various online platforms and media streaming services.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic buffer overflow condition where the application fails to properly validate the size and structure of ASMRuleBook data elements during file parsing operations. When a maliciously constructed RealMedia file is processed, the parser attempts to allocate memory buffers based on incorrect size calculations derived from the malformed data. This improper memory management creates writable memory regions that can be overwritten with malicious code payloads, allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous for widespread deployment.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-2406 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data theft capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal sensitive information, or escalate privileges within the victim's system environment. The attack vector requires only that a user opens a maliciously crafted RealMedia file, which can be delivered through various means including email attachments, malicious websites, or compromised media streaming services. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors who can exploit it through social engineering campaigns or automated scanning of vulnerable systems. The vulnerability affects both desktop and mobile platforms where RealPlayer is installed, creating a broad attack surface.
Security mitigations for CVE-2012-2406 primarily focus on immediate software updates and patches provided by RealNetworks, specifically version 15.0.4.53 and later releases. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive the necessary updates promptly. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing file type filtering at network boundaries to prevent the delivery of potentially malicious RealMedia files. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a typical example of how improper input validation can lead to privilege escalation attacks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1059 for command and script injection, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, emphasizing the need for layered defensive strategies including application whitelisting and user behavior monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.