CVE-2025-29366 in Mupen64Plus
Summary
by MITRE • 08/22/2025
In mupen64plus v2.6.0 there is an array overflow vulnerability in the write_rdram_regs and write_rdram_regs functions, which enables executing arbitrary commands on the host machine.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2025
The array overflow vulnerability identified in mupen64plus version 2.6.0 represents a critical security flaw that resides within the emulation framework's memory management functions. This vulnerability specifically affects the write_rdram_regs and write_rdram_regs functions, which are responsible for handling memory operations within the emulator's virtual machine environment. The flaw stems from inadequate bounds checking mechanisms that fail to validate array indices before accessing memory locations, creating a pathway for malicious input to overwrite adjacent memory regions. Such vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-129 category of Improper Validation of Array Index, which is a well-documented weakness that frequently leads to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability exists in the context of a multimedia emulation application that processes game data and memory operations, making it particularly dangerous when combined with the complex memory management patterns inherent in Nintendo 64 emulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate memory addresses through carefully crafted input data that bypasses normal validation checks. When the write_rdram_regs functions process memory write operations, they fail to properly validate the size and boundaries of array operations, enabling an attacker to provide input that causes array indices to exceed allocated memory boundaries. This memory corruption can lead to stack smashing, heap corruption, or other forms of memory overwrite conditions that ultimately result in arbitrary code execution. The exploitability of this vulnerability is significantly enhanced by the fact that mupen64plus processes untrusted game data from external sources, making it possible for attackers to deliver malicious payloads through ROM files or other emulation inputs. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a memory corruption technique under the T1059.007 sub-technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as the vulnerability enables arbitrary command execution on the host system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation or denial of service scenarios, as it provides full arbitrary code execution capabilities on the host machine. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute malicious code with the privileges of the user running the mupen64plus emulator, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects all systems running mupen64plus v2.6.0, including desktop environments, servers, and mobile platforms where the emulator is installed. This creates a significant risk for users who download and run untrusted ROM files or engage with third-party emulation content, as the vulnerability can be triggered through legitimate emulation workflows. The memory corruption aspects of this vulnerability align with the ATT&CK technique T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as successful exploitation can result in elevated privileges and persistent access to the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security enhancements within the mupen64plus codebase. The primary solution involves implementing proper bounds checking and input validation within the write_rdram_regs functions to prevent array overflow conditions. Security patches should include bounds validation that ensures array indices remain within allocated memory boundaries before any memory operations occur. Additionally, developers should implement stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and other exploit mitigation techniques to reduce the effectiveness of potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to industry standards such as the CWE guidelines for proper array index validation and memory management. Users should immediately upgrade to patched versions of mupen64plus and avoid running untrusted ROM files until the vulnerability is resolved. The ATT&CK framework suggests implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while also recommending regular security audits of emulation software to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components.