CVE-2013-0001 in .NET Framework
Summary
by MITRE
The Windows Forms (aka WinForms) component in Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 SP3, 1.1 SP1, 2.0 SP2, 3.0 SP2, 4, and 4.5 does not properly initialize memory arrays, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via (1) a crafted XAML browser application (XBAP) or (2) a crafted .NET Framework application that leverages a pointer to an unmanaged memory location, aka "System Drawing Information Disclosure Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/20/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0001 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the Windows Forms component of Microsoft .NET Framework versions 1.0 SP3 through 4.5. This vulnerability stems from improper memory array initialization within the System.Drawing namespace, specifically affecting how the framework handles memory management when processing graphical elements and drawing operations. The flaw manifests when applications process XAML browser applications or utilize .NET Framework applications that reference unmanaged memory locations, creating opportunities for attackers to extract sensitive data from memory.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-128, which describes "Unsigned to Signed Conversion Error" and is also related to CWE-248, "Uncaught Exception." The memory initialization issue occurs during the processing of drawing operations where the framework fails to properly initialize memory arrays before use, leading to information disclosure through memory content that may contain remnants of previous operations or sensitive data. This improper initialization creates a condition where attackers can craft malicious applications or XBAP files that trigger memory access patterns revealing previously allocated memory contents. The vulnerability specifically impacts the System.Drawing assembly within the .NET Framework, which handles graphical operations and user interface elements, making it particularly dangerous in environments where applications process untrusted XAML content or user-generated graphical data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across multiple Microsoft .NET Framework versions, creating a widespread attack surface that affects both legacy and contemporary applications. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through two primary vectors: crafting malicious XAML browser applications that execute within the browser context, or developing .NET Framework applications that specifically target unmanaged memory locations. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it particularly concerning for web applications and browser-based environments. Systems running affected .NET Framework versions are vulnerable to information disclosure attacks that could reveal sensitive data such as encryption keys, user credentials, or application state information stored in memory. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is enhanced by the fact that many applications rely heavily on Windows Forms for user interface elements, making it difficult for organizations to fully isolate or prevent exploitation without comprehensive patching.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including applying the relevant Microsoft security updates that address this vulnerability, as well as implementing network segmentation and application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted XAML content. The mitigation approach should align with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1071.004 for application layer protocol. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual memory access patterns and the execution of XBAP files from untrusted sources. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing memory protection mechanisms and regular security assessments to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory initialization practices in framework components and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of core libraries that handle user input and graphical operations. Microsoft's security advisory recommends updating to the latest .NET Framework versions where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper memory management and initialization routines that prevent information disclosure through uninitialized memory access patterns.