Critical Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in libass: Denial of Service Risk
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2016-7970: Buffer overflow in the calc_coeff function in libass/ass_blur.c in libass before 0.13.4 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service via unspecified vectors. Affects libass versions < 0.13.4-r0. Fixed in 0.13.4-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
libass is a library designed for rendering subtitles, particularly for video playback applications. It provides advanced features such as styling and positioning of subtitles, making it a popular choice among developers. However, prior to version 0.13.4, libass contained a critical buffer overflow vulnerability that could be exploited by remote attackers, potentially leading to a denial of service.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2016-7970, originates from a buffer overflow in the calc_coeff function located in libass/ass_blur.c. This flaw allows remote attackers to exploit unspecified vectors, leading to a denial of service. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.5, indicating a high severity level. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to crash applications using the affected library, disrupting service and potentially causing data loss.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0.13.4-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade libassTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate updating is not feasible, consider disabling the use of libass in your application or switching to an alternative subtitle rendering library until the update can be applied.
Conclusion
The buffer overflow vulnerability in libass (CVE-2016-7970) poses a significant risk of denial of service for applications utilizing this library. It is crucial to update to the patched version 0.13.4-r0 to mitigate this risk. Users can also leverage tools like Vulert to monitor for vulnerabilities in their software.
See every vulnerability recorded for libass →
FAQ
CVE-2016-7970 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in the libass library that can lead to denial of service.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can cause applications using libass to crash, resulting in denial of service and potential data loss.
Yes, the vulnerability has been patched in version 0.13.4-r0 of libass. It is recommended to update to this version or later.
Vulert is a tool that monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json, providing real-time insights.
References
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