Windows Media Heap Overflow (CVE-2025-29963): Remote Code Execution Alert

Introduction

A critical vulnerability in Windows Media, identified as CVE-2025-29963, has emerged, posing significant risks of remote code execution. Attackers exploiting this heap-based buffer overflow can compromise systems remotely without user interaction, emphasizing the urgency for immediate patching and mitigation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Windows Media Framework: Versions 10.0.17763.0 and earlier
Windows Server: Deployments with media streaming services enabled

Technical Information

The vulnerability stems from improper memory management in Windows Media's handling of network data streams. Specifically, a heap-based buffer overflow occurs when incoming data exceeds the allocated buffer size, corrupting adjacent memory and enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely.

Vulnerable Code Snippet

void process_media_stream(char* input) {
    char buffer[256];
    strcpy(buffer, input); // Vulnerable to overflow
}

Attack Vector

Attackers exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted network packets to vulnerable Windows Media services, triggering the overflow and allowing arbitrary code execution.

Patch Information

Microsoft has released patches addressing CVE-2025-29963 in the May 2025 security update. Users are strongly advised to apply these updates immediately via Windows Update or enterprise deployment tools.

Microsoft Patch Advisory

Alternative Mitigations

Restrict inbound traffic to Windows Media services (ports 5004/UDP, 5005/TCP).
Disable Windows Media services if not in use.
Enable Control Flow Guard (CFG) and Arbitrary Code Guard (ACG).

Detection Methods

Monitor network traffic for unusual patterns targeting Windows Media services. Investigate logs for unexpected process executions involving Windows Media components. No specific IoCs or YARA rules are currently available.

Vendor Security History

Microsoft regularly addresses vulnerabilities through monthly Patch Tuesday updates. However, recurring vulnerabilities in components like Windows Media highlight ongoing challenges in secure coding practices.