CVE-2013-6937 in Watermark Master
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in VideoCharge Software Watermark Master 2.2.23 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in the name attribute of the cols element in a .wstyle file.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6937 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within VideoCharge Software Watermark Master version 2.2.23 that exposes the application to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the parsing mechanism of .wstyle files which are used to define watermark styling configurations within the software. The flaw occurs when the application processes the name attribute of the cols element within these configuration files without proper bounds checking, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the VideoCharge Watermark Master application. When a specially crafted .wstyle file containing an excessively long string in the name attribute of the cols element is processed, the application fails to properly validate the input length before copying it into a fixed-size buffer. This classic buffer overflow scenario allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the program's execution flow and enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions that occur when data is written beyond the boundaries of a fixed-length buffer.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential pathway for system compromise and privilege escalation within the context of the vulnerable software. An attacker could craft a malicious .wstyle file and deliver it through various means such as email attachments, compromised websites, or file sharing platforms, making the attack surface particularly wide. Once executed, the vulnerability could allow adversaries to install malware, modify system configurations, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires minimal user interaction beyond opening the malicious configuration file, making it suitable for social engineering campaigns and automated exploitation attempts.
Organizations and users affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect against exploitation attempts. The primary recommendation involves updating to the latest version of VideoCharge Software Watermark Master where the buffer overflow has been patched and proper input validation has been implemented. System administrators should also deploy network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious .wstyle file transfers and implement strict file type filtering policies that prevent unauthorized or untrusted configuration files from being processed by the application. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by running the application with minimal required permissions and implementing application whitelisting controls to prevent execution of unauthorized software components. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper memory management, particularly in applications that process external configuration files, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage in exploitation contexts.