CVE-2015-2061 in Creo View
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the browser plugin for PTC Creo View allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors involving setting a large buffer to an unspecified attribute.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2061 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the browser plugin component of PTC Creo View software. This flaw exists in the plugin's handling of unspecified attributes when processing large buffer data, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability specifically affects the heap memory management within the browser plugin architecture, where insufficient bounds checking allows malicious input to overwrite adjacent memory regions. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially designed input that triggers the buffer overflow condition when the plugin processes unspecified attributes with large buffer allocations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management practices within the browser plugin's attribute handling mechanism. When the plugin encounters an unspecified attribute containing a large buffer, the code fails to validate the buffer size against allocated heap memory boundaries. This oversight creates a condition where the buffer overflow can overwrite critical heap metadata, function pointers, or return addresses, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow. The vulnerability is classified as a heap-based buffer overflow, which falls under the CWE-121 category of buffer overflow conditions, specifically representing a heap-based memory corruption vulnerability. The attack vector requires remote exploitation through web-based delivery mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where users may encounter malicious content through web browsers or web-enabled applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-2061 extends beyond simple privilege escalation or denial of service conditions. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user or browser process. This vulnerability directly maps to the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can leverage the buffer overflow to inject and execute malicious code within the browser environment. The vulnerability affects users who have the PTC Creo View browser plugin installed, particularly those who browse the internet or access web content that may contain malicious payloads. Organizations utilizing PTC Creo View in engineering and design environments face heightened risk, as these systems often contain sensitive intellectual property and critical design data that could be compromised through successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-2061 should prioritize immediate patch management and plugin disablement where possible. Organizations must ensure that all instances of PTC Creo View browser plugins are updated to versions that address the heap buffer overflow vulnerability. Security administrators should implement network-based controls to restrict access to potentially malicious content and consider disabling the browser plugin entirely in environments where it is not required. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and bounds checking in plugin architectures, emphasizing the need for defensive programming practices that prevent buffer overflows through proper memory management. Additionally, organizations should monitor for exploitation attempts through network intrusion detection systems and implement application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized code. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical security implications of browser plugins and the necessity of regular security assessments for third-party software components that integrate with web browsers.