Heap-based Buffer Overflow in libsndfile: Critical Vulnerability Leading to Denial of Service
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-12562: Heap-based Buffer Overflow in the psf_binheader_writef function in common.c in libsndfile through 1.0.28 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) or possibly have unspecified other impact. Affects libsndfile versions < 1.0.28-r2. Fixed in 1.0.28-r2. How to fix ↓
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Background
libsndfile is a widely used library for reading and writing files containing sampled sound. It supports various audio formats and is essential for applications that require audio processing capabilities. This library is integral to many software projects, making its security paramount. The vulnerability in question affects versions of libsndfile up to 1.0.28, exposing users to potential crashes and other impacts due to improper handling of audio file headers.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2017-12562, is a heap-based buffer overflow in the psf_binheader_writef function located in common.c of libsndfile. This flaw allows remote attackers to exploit the library by crafting malicious audio files, leading to application crashes or potentially other unspecified impacts. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a critical risk level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.0.28-r2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade libsndfileTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can avoid processing untrusted audio files until the library is updated. Additionally, implementing input validation to check the integrity of audio files before processing may mitigate some risks.
Conclusion
The heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in libsndfile poses a significant risk to applications that utilize this library for audio processing. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched version to safeguard against potential exploits. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
See every vulnerability recorded for libsndfile →
FAQ
CVE-2017-12562 is a critical vulnerability in the libsndfile library that allows attackers to exploit a buffer overflow, potentially leading to application crashes.
You can use the Vulert platform to check for vulnerabilities in your application without any installation. Simply upload your manifest file like package-lock.json to get real-time alerts.
The primary consequence is a denial of service, where the application may crash when processing malicious audio files. There may also be other unspecified impacts.
Yes, the patch is available in version 1.0.28-r2 of libsndfile. Users should update to this version to mitigate the vulnerability.
If an immediate update is not possible, avoid processing untrusted audio files and consider implementing input validation as a temporary measure.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for libsndfile.
