CVE-2014-1250 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Apple QuickTime before 7.7.5 does not properly perform a byte-swapping operation, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds memory access and application crash) via a crafted ttfo element in a movie file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1250 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Apple QuickTime media player software versions prior to 7.7.5. This issue stems from improper handling of byte-swapping operations during the parsing of movie files, specifically when processing the ttfo element within the file structure. The flaw exists in the multimedia framework's parsing logic where the application fails to validate the boundaries of memory operations during data conversion processes. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-129 category of Improper Validation of Array Index, as the application does not properly validate array indices during byte-swapping operations, leading to memory access violations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when QuickTime processes a specially crafted movie file containing a malicious ttfo element. During the parsing process, the application performs byte-swapping operations without adequate bounds checking, allowing an attacker to manipulate the data structure in such a way that memory access occurs beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. The flaw manifests as an out-of-bounds memory access condition that can be exploited to either execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application or cause a denial of service through application crashes. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within a widely used media player application that automatically processes media files, making it susceptible to exploitation through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or malicious streaming content.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-1250 extends beyond simple application instability, as it provides attackers with a pathway for remote code execution on vulnerable systems. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability can allow attackers to gain complete control over the affected system, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or further lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects all versions of Apple QuickTime prior to 7.7.5, which were widely deployed across enterprise and consumer environments, making the potential attack surface substantial. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, as it leverages the media player application's automatic processing capabilities to execute malicious code without requiring user interaction beyond opening the compromised file.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-1250 focus primarily on immediate software updates and system hardening measures. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to Apple QuickTime version 7.7.5 or later, which includes proper bounds checking and validation of byte-swapping operations. Organizations should implement automated patch management systems to ensure all affected systems receive updates promptly. Additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized QuickTime versions, configuring email filters to block suspicious media attachments, and deploying network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Security professionals should also consider disabling QuickTime plugins in web browsers where possible, as this reduces the attack surface for web-based exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory safety practices in multimedia processing frameworks, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for secure coding practices.