CVE-2015-1728 in Windows Media Player
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Windows Media Player 10 through 12 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted DataObject on a web site, aka "Windows Media Player RCE via DataObject Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1728 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft Windows Media Player versions 10 through 12. This vulnerability specifically targets the DataObject handling mechanism within the media player's architecture, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw exists in how Windows Media Player processes DataObject elements within web content, making it exploitable through web-based attack vectors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows remote attackers to leverage malicious web pages to deliver and execute malicious payloads without requiring user interaction beyond visiting the compromised website.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the Windows Media Player's DataObject parsing functionality. When a malicious web page contains a crafted DataObject element, the media player fails to properly validate the data structure, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to gain arbitrary code execution. This flaw falls under the category of buffer overflow vulnerabilities, specifically classified as CWE-121 as it involves improper handling of data structures that can lead to memory corruption. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be triggered through web browser interactions, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users frequently browse the internet.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-1728 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it enables attackers to establish persistent access to compromised systems. Once successfully exploited, attackers can install malware, modify system files, create backdoors, or escalate privileges to gain administrative control over affected machines. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Windows operating systems including Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows Server 2003, 2008, and 2012. This broad compatibility makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors and increases its potential impact across various organizational environments. The attack surface is extensive since many users encounter web content through browsers that automatically invoke Windows Media Player for media playback.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch management and system hardening measures. Microsoft released security updates addressing this vulnerability through Windows Update, and organizations should prioritize deployment of these patches across all affected systems. Network-based mitigations include implementing web filtering solutions that can block access to known malicious domains and content that may contain crafted DataObject elements. The vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access through web-based attacks and privilege escalation. Security professionals should also consider disabling Windows Media Player functionality in web browsers or implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent exploitation. Additionally, monitoring for unusual network traffic patterns or system behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts can help detect and respond to incidents involving this vulnerability.