CVE-2013-1321 in Publisher 2003
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Publisher 2003 SP3 does not properly check the data type of an unspecified return value, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted Publisher file, aka "Publisher Return Value Validation Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-1321 represents a critical security flaw within Microsoft Publisher 2003 Service Pack 3 that stems from inadequate validation of return value data types during file processing operations. This weakness exists in the application's handling of malformed Publisher files that contain specially crafted data structures designed to exploit the insufficient type checking mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically affects the way Publisher processes certain return values from internal functions, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to manipulate the application's execution flow through carefully constructed input files.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability falls under the category of improper input validation and type checking, which aligns with CWE-20 - Improper Input Validation and CWE-129 - Improper Validation of Array Index. The flaw occurs when Publisher attempts to process a crafted file that contains unexpected data types in return value fields, allowing attackers to bypass normal execution boundaries and inject malicious code into the application's memory space. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the data parsing level where the application's internal state management becomes compromised through manipulation of expected return values from processing functions.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-1321 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it enables attackers to achieve remote code execution within the context of the user running Publisher. This represents a significant escalation of privilege risk since successful exploitation allows adversaries to execute arbitrary commands on vulnerable systems without requiring additional authentication or elevated permissions. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can deliver malicious Publisher files through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious websites, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently open compromised documents.
Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can employ techniques aligned with the attack pattern described in MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, where they craft malicious Publisher files that trigger the vulnerable code path. The exploitation typically involves creating a specially formatted Publisher document that contains malicious data structures designed to cause the application to improperly handle return values, leading to code execution. This vulnerability also relates to T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation when the compromised application runs with elevated privileges, potentially allowing attackers to gain system-level access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-1321 should prioritize immediate patching of Microsoft Publisher 2003 with the appropriate security updates from Microsoft. Organizations should implement strict document validation policies that prevent opening Publisher files from untrusted sources, combined with network-level controls that filter potentially malicious file types. Security professionals should also consider deploying application whitelisting solutions that restrict execution of Publisher applications unless explicitly authorized, and implement monitoring solutions that detect anomalous behavior patterns consistent with exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding suspicious email attachments and unverified downloads, as social engineering remains a common initial delivery method for such exploits.