CVE-2009-0133

Buffer overflow in Microsoft HTML Help Workshop 4.74 and earlier allows context-dependent attackers to execute arbitrary code via a .hhp file with a long…

published January 15, 2009

Patch now

High probability of exploitation

NVD has not assigned a CVSS score to this record. It sits in the 99.3th percentile for exploit probability.

CVSS
—
EPSS
67%
Percentile
99.3
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A buffer overflow lurking in Microsoft HTML Help Workshop 4.74 and earlier could let crafty attackers execute arbitrary code simply by using a .hhp file that has a lengthy "Index file" field! Think of it like a restaurant with a menu that has no size limits. An overly long order can completely overload the kitchen, causing chaos and potentially ruining the whole meal—just like a carefully crafted .hhp file can turn a program upside down! If an attacker exploits this vulnerability, they could gain control over your system, leading to potentially devastating consequences like data theft or malicious software installation. It's a sneaky way to sidestep security measures that could put your digital life in jeopardy!

Put simply

Think of it like a restaurant with a menu that has no size limits. An overly long order can completely overload the kitchen, causing chaos and potentially ruining the whole meal—just like a carefully crafted .hhp file can turn a program upside down! This buffer overflow vulnerability occurs when the Microsoft HTML Help Workshop fails to properly handle excessively long "Index file" fields in .hhp files, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.

What to do

If an attacker exploits this vulnerability, they could gain control over your system, leading to potentially devastating consequences like data theft or malicious software installation. It's a sneaky way to sidestep security measures that could put your digital life in jeopardy! To protect yourself, upgrade to a newer version of Microsoft HTML Help Workshop that addresses this vulnerability. Additionally, avoid opening .hhp files from untrusted sources until you're certain you're safe. A little caution goes a long way! You've got this! Stay informed, keep your software updated, and you'll be a security champion in no time! 🦸

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.67049 · 99.3th percentile
Published
2009-01-15T17:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 15 JAN 17:00Z
    Buffer overflow in Microsoft HTML Help Workshop 4.74 and earlier allows context-dependent attackers to execute arbitrary code via a .hhp file with a long…
    cvelistv5