Apple QuickTime for Windows contains a vulnerability that could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on a targeted system. Updates are available.
Description
Apple QuickTime for Windows contains a vulnerability that could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code.
The vulnerability is due to insufficient bounds checks performed by the affected software when handling a crafted Content-Type header. An unauthenticated, remote attacker could exploit the vulnerability by persuading a user to browse to a crafted web page. When the affected software processes the crafted web page, a memory error condition could occur that the attacker could use to execute arbitrary code. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user. If the user holds elevated privileges, a complete compromise of the targeted system could occur.
Proof-of-concept code that exploits the vulnerability is publicly available as part of the Metasploit framework.
Apple has confirmed the vulnerability in a security advisory and has released software updates.
Warning Indicators
Apple QuickTime for Windows versions prior to 7.7.3 are vulnerable.
IntelliShield Analysis
To exploit the vulnerability, the attacker may provide a link that directs a user to a malicious site and use misleading language or instructions to persuade the user to follow the provided link.
The vulnerability was also addressed in IntelliShield alert ID 27384 Apple QuickTime for Windows Security Update for Multiple Vulnerabilities.
Vendor Announcements
Apple has released a security advisory at the following link: HT5581
Impact
An unauthenticated, remote attacker could exploit the vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on a targeted system. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user. If the user holds elevated privileges, a complete compromise of the targeted system could occur.
Technical Information
The vulnerability is due to insufficient bounds checks performed by the affected software when handling a crafted MIME Content-Type header.
An unauthenticated, remote attacker could exploit the vulnerability by persuading a user to browse to a crafted web page. When the affected software processes the crafted web page, a buffer overflow memory error condition may occur that the attacker could use to execute arbitrary code. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user. If the user holds elevated privileges, a complete compromise of the targeted system could occur.
Safeguards
Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.
Users are advised not to open e-mail messages from suspicious or unrecognized sources. If users cannot verify that links or attachments included in e-mail messages are safe, they are advised not to open them.
Users should verify that unsolicited links are safe to follow.
Administrators are advised to use an unprivileged account for routine activities.
Administrators are advised to monitor affected systems.
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