Apple issues a security update for Quicktime 7.1.6
Today, Apple released a security update for Quicktime 7.1.6, further removing a vulnerability first used by a security researcher in April to win $10,000 and a new Macbook in the "PWN 2 0WN" contest at CanSecWest 2007. This security update complements an earlier bug patch for Quicktime 7.1.6 released by Apple on May 1, 2007. The 1.1Mb Windows Quicktime 7.1.6 update affects users of Windows 2000 SP4, and Windows XP SP2. The 1.4 Mb Mac Quicktime 7.1.6 update affects users of Mac OS X v10.3.9 and Mac OS X v10.4.9.
The vulnerability, as reported in CVE-2007-2175, allows attackers to entice users to a Web site with a maliciously coded Java applet and then run attack code on a compromised machine. The Apple security update places further parameter limitations on QTPointerRef objects in Apple Quicktime Java extensions within the Safari and Firefox browsers, denying these types of attacks. Apple credits security researcher Dino Dai Zovi, working with TippingPoint and the Zero Day Initiative, for his help in resolving this issue.
As CNET's resident security expert, Robert Vamosi has been interviewed on the BBC, CNN, MSNBC, and other outlets to share his knowledge about the latest online threats and to offer advice on personal and corporate security. Listen to his podcast at securitybites.cnet.com or e-mail Robert with your questions and comments.
