CVE-2013-1320 in Publisher 2003
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Microsoft Publisher 2003 SP3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Publisher file, aka "Publisher Buffer Overflow Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/11/2021
The CVE-2013-1320 vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Microsoft Publisher 2003 Service Pack 3 that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted Publisher files. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow conditions, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw specifically affects the handling of malformed data structures within Publisher documents, creating an exploitable condition that can be triggered when the application processes specially crafted input files. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by embedding malicious code within Publisher documents that, when opened by an affected system, causes the buffer overflow to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the victim user.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way Publisher 2003 SP3 processes document elements, particularly those related to formatting and embedded objects. When the application encounters malformed data structures within a Publisher file, it fails to properly validate input boundaries before copying data into fixed-size buffers. This allows attackers to overwrite critical memory locations including return addresses and function pointers, effectively hijacking the program execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the application layer and can be remotely delivered through email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing mechanisms. The exploit requires minimal user interaction beyond opening the malicious document, making it highly effective for social engineering campaigns.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to enterprise environments where Microsoft Publisher 2003 is deployed, particularly in organizations that have not implemented proper patch management protocols. The remote code execution capability allows attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially move laterally within network environments. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations may experience data breaches, system compromise, and potential full network infiltration when this vulnerability is exploited, especially in environments where users have administrative privileges. The attack surface extends beyond individual user systems to include shared network resources and document servers that may host Publisher files.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-1320 should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as the vendor released patches specifically addressing this buffer overflow condition. System administrators should implement strict document validation policies, particularly for Publisher files, and consider disabling automatic execution of embedded objects within Office applications. Network segmentation and email filtering solutions can help prevent delivery of malicious Publisher files through email channels. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting controls to restrict execution of untrusted Publisher documents and maintain regular vulnerability assessments to identify systems running outdated versions of Microsoft Publisher. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing comprehensive security controls that address both known and emerging threats in enterprise environments.