CVE-2013-1319 in Publisher 2003
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Publisher 2003 SP3 does not properly check the return value of an unspecified method, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Publisher file, aka "Publisher Return Value Handling Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/11/2021
The CVE-2013-1319 vulnerability represents a critical return value handling flaw in Microsoft Publisher 2003 Service Pack 3 that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted publisher files. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of improper input validation and error handling mechanisms that can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized system access. The flaw specifically manifests when the application fails to properly validate the return value of an unspecified method during file processing operations, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged remotely.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious publisher file is opened or processed by the vulnerable application, triggering the improper return value handling mechanism. Attackers can craft specially designed publisher documents that, when opened by an affected system, cause the application to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the application. This type of vulnerability typically involves buffer overflows, memory corruption, or other memory management errors that occur when the application does not properly validate method return codes before proceeding with execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-252, which describes "Unchecked Return Value" conditions where programs fail to check the results of functions that might indicate failure or error states.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations relying on Microsoft Publisher 2003, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted publisher files through email attachments, file sharing systems, or web downloads. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers can deliver malicious files through various channels without requiring local access to the target system. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through social engineering attacks where users are tricked into opening seemingly legitimate publisher documents that contain malicious code designed to exploit the return value handling flaw. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1204.002 which describes "User Execution: Malicious File" and represents a common entry point for initial compromise in enterprise environments.
The impact of successful exploitation includes complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, install malware, modify or delete data, and potentially establish persistent access through backdoors or other malicious tools. Organizations using vulnerable versions of Microsoft Publisher 2003 face elevated risk of data breaches, system infiltration, and potential lateral movement within their networks. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that the attack surface extends beyond individual user systems to potentially impact entire network infrastructures, especially in environments where users have elevated privileges or where the application is used for document sharing and collaboration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-1319 should prioritize immediate application of Microsoft security patches and updates, as well as implementing comprehensive email filtering and file validation controls. Organizations should consider disabling or removing Microsoft Publisher 2003 from production systems where possible, particularly in environments where it is not essential for business operations. Network-based protections including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and content filtering solutions should be configured to block or scan publisher file types, especially when they originate from untrusted sources. Additionally, user education and awareness programs should emphasize the importance of not opening suspicious email attachments or files from unknown sources, and implementing least privilege access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and following secure coding practices that emphasize proper error handling and return value validation in all software applications.