CVE-2013-0079 in Visio
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Visio Viewer 2010 SP1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Visio file that triggers incorrect memory allocation, aka "Visio Viewer Tree Object Type Confusion Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0079 represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Visio Viewer 2010 Service Pack 1 that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted Visio files. This vulnerability specifically affects the way the application handles tree object type confusion during memory allocation processes, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The flaw resides in the application's improper handling of object type information within Visio document structures, particularly when processing complex tree-based data structures that define the visual elements and relationships within Visio files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a type confusion error that occurs when the Visio Viewer processes certain Visio file formats containing specially crafted tree objects. According to CWE-467, this represents a specific instance of improper type handling where the application fails to properly validate or distinguish between different object types during memory allocation operations. The vulnerability manifests when the viewer attempts to allocate memory for tree objects without adequate type checking, allowing attackers to manipulate memory layout through carefully constructed Visio files that exploit this type confusion. This type confusion vulnerability falls under the broader category of memory safety issues that have historically been a primary attack vector for remote code execution exploits.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-0079 is substantial as it enables attackers to achieve remote code execution without requiring user interaction beyond opening a malicious Visio file. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Visio files are commonly shared through email attachments, document repositories, or web-based collaboration platforms. The exploit can be delivered through phishing campaigns, malicious file sharing, or compromised websites that host crafted Visio files. Once executed, the malicious code can establish persistence, escalate privileges, or provide a backdoor for further exploitation. The vulnerability affects systems running Microsoft Visio Viewer 2010 SP1 and potentially other versions that share similar memory handling patterns, making it a widespread concern across organizations that rely on Visio document viewing capabilities.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant Microsoft security patches and updates that address the memory allocation and type confusion issues within the Visio Viewer application. System administrators should also consider implementing email filtering rules to block Visio file attachments from untrusted sources, and deploy application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of unauthorized Visio Viewer processes. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect potential exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify systems running vulnerable versions of the software. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation and remote code execution, making it a significant concern for organizations implementing security controls that address known software vulnerabilities and their exploitation patterns.