CVE-2013-0710 in Writer 2010
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Kingsoft Writer 2007 and 2010 before 2724 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted RTF document.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/07/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0710 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Kingsoft Writer 2007 and 2010 versions prior to build 2724. This vulnerability exists within the RTF (Rich Text Format) document parsing functionality of the software, creating a dangerous condition where maliciously crafted RTF files can trigger arbitrary code execution on vulnerable systems. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices during the processing of RTF document structures, particularly when handling malformed or oversized data within the document's metadata or content sections. The vulnerability specifically affects the software's ability to properly handle buffer boundaries when parsing RTF elements, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious payloads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking permits memory corruption. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting RTF documents containing oversized or malformed data structures that exceed the allocated buffer space during parsing operations. When the vulnerable Kingsoft Writer application processes such documents, the buffer overflow can overwrite critical program memory including return addresses, function pointers, or other control structures. This memory corruption enables attackers to redirect program execution flow and inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the affected application, typically resulting in full system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may unknowingly open malicious RTF documents received via email or downloaded from untrusted sources.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-0710 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Since RTF documents are commonly used for document exchange and communication, this vulnerability creates an attractive attack vector for threat actors seeking to establish persistent access to target systems. The remote exploitation capability means attackers can deliver malicious payloads without requiring physical access to the target machine, making it particularly effective for large-scale attacks or targeted campaigns. Organizations using affected versions of Kingsoft Writer face significant risk of data breaches, system infiltration, and potential use as a foothold for broader network attacks. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in document processing applications, as RTF parsing involves complex nested structures that require robust boundary checking to prevent memory corruption.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patch deployment to update Kingsoft Writer to version 2724 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement network-based protections including email filtering systems that can identify and block suspicious RTF attachments, as well as application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of untrusted document files. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file processing patterns and potential exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under technique T1203, which involves exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation and system access, emphasizing the need for comprehensive endpoint protection measures. Additionally, regular security assessments of document processing applications and implementation of principle of least privilege controls can help reduce the overall attack surface and limit potential damage from similar vulnerabilities in the future.