CVE-2013-2691 in jetAudio
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the JetMPG.ax module in jetAudio 8.0.17 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted MPEG2-TS video file, related to the MPEG2 transport stream.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2691 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting the JetMPG.ax module within jetAudio version 8.0.17. This flaw resides in the multimedia processing component responsible for handling MPEG2 transport stream files, specifically within the jetAudio application's handling of video content. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the JetMPG.ax ActiveX control, which processes MPEG2-TS video files that are commonly used in digital television broadcasting and streaming applications. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the application's memory structure by providing a specially crafted MPEG2-TS file that exceeds the allocated buffer space, leading to potential code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of the application's stack memory during the processing of malformed MPEG2 transport stream data. When jetAudio encounters a crafted video file, the JetMPG.ax module fails to properly validate the size and structure of incoming data streams, particularly in the way it parses the MPEG2 transport stream headers and payload information. This failure results in a classic stack buffer overflow condition where the overflowed data overwrites adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control structures. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the ActiveX component architecture which is commonly enabled in web browsers, allowing attackers to deliver malicious content through web-based attacks without requiring local system access. The flaw is categorized under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is a fundamental memory safety issue that has been consistently identified as one of the most prevalent and dangerous vulnerability types in software security.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-2691 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it represents a significant threat vector for attackers seeking to compromise systems running vulnerable versions of jetAudio. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including web-based delivery, email attachments, or file sharing networks where users might unknowingly open malicious video files. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user, potentially leading to data theft, system monitoring, or further lateral movement within network environments. The attack surface is particularly broad due to the widespread use of jetAudio for multimedia playback and the common practice of enabling ActiveX controls in web browsers for enhanced media functionality. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers could leverage the executed code to establish persistent access or deploy additional malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary recommendation involves updating to a patched version of jetAudio that resolves the buffer overflow condition in the JetMPG.ax module, which typically includes proper input validation, bounds checking, and memory management practices. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, particularly disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers where possible, and employing content filtering solutions to prevent the delivery of malicious media files. Additionally, security awareness training should emphasize the dangers of opening untrusted multimedia files, and system administrators should conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate similar issues in other multimedia applications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices including the use of safe string handling functions, memory management controls, and regular security code reviews to prevent similar buffer overflow conditions in future development cycles.