CVE-2015-7085 in QuickTime
Summary
by MITRE
Apple QuickTime before 7.7.9 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption and application crash) via a crafted movie file, a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-7086, CVE-2015-7087, CVE-2015-7088, CVE-2015-7089, CVE-2015-7090, CVE-2015-7091, CVE-2015-7092, and CVE-2015-7117.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2022
Apple QuickTime versions prior to 7.7.9 contain a critical memory corruption vulnerability that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted movie files. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory management within the QuickTime media processing engine, specifically when handling malformed movie file structures. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code on affected systems or trigger application crashes that result in denial of service conditions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper handling of media file headers and metadata structures during the parsing process. When QuickTime encounters specially crafted movie files containing malformed data sequences, the application fails to properly validate buffer boundaries and memory allocation parameters. This leads to heap-based buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions that can be exploited to overwrite critical memory locations and redirect execution flow. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous for end users who may unknowingly open malicious media content.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7085 extends beyond simple application crashes to encompass full system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious payloads directly on target systems, potentially leading to complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects multiple operating systems including macOS and Windows platforms where QuickTime is installed, creating widespread exposure across enterprise and consumer environments. Additionally, the memory corruption aspects can be chained with other exploits to create more sophisticated attack vectors, making this vulnerability a significant threat in targeted attack scenarios.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including mandatory software updates to QuickTime 7.7.9 or later versions that contain patches addressing the memory corruption issues. Organizations should also deploy network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious QuickTime-related traffic patterns and consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of untrusted media files. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities, both of which are common in media processing applications. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1203, which covers exploitation for execution, and T1059, which involves command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers may leverage the compromised system for further malicious activities.