Segmentation Violation in libsndfile Due to FLAC File Processing
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2017-7742: In libsndfile before 1.0.28, an error in the "flac_buffer_copy()" function (flac.c) can be exploited to cause a segmentation violation (with read memory access) via a specially crafted FLAC file during a resample attempt... Affects libsndfile versions < 1.0.28-r0. Fixed in 1.0.28-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
libsndfile is a widely used library for reading and writing audio files in various formats, including WAV, AIFF, and FLAC. It provides a simple API for audio file manipulation, making it a critical component in many audio processing applications. However, prior to version 1.0.28, libsndfile contained a vulnerability that could lead to a segmentation violation when processing specially crafted FLAC files, potentially affecting the stability of applications that rely on this library.
Vulnerability Detail
In libsndfile versions before 1.0.28, an error in the 'flac_buffer_copy()' function (located in flac.c) can be exploited to cause a segmentation violation through a specially crafted FLAC file during a resampling attempt. This vulnerability is similar to CVE-2017-7585 and can lead to application crashes or unexpected behavior, as it allows for read memory access violations.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.0.28-r0
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, avoid processing untrusted or unknown FLAC files until the library is updated. Additionally, consider implementing input validation to filter out potentially harmful files before processing.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in libsndfile prior to version 1.0.28 poses a significant risk to applications that process FLAC files, potentially leading to crashes and instability. It is crucial to update to the patched version to ensure application security and reliability.
See every vulnerability recorded for libsndfile →
FAQ
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 5.5, indicating a medium severity level.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.
libsndfile is commonly used in audio processing applications, digital audio workstations, and any software that requires reading or writing audio files in various formats.
While the primary risk is application instability or crashes, there is no direct risk of data loss. However, unexpected behavior could lead to issues in processing audio data.
If an immediate update is not possible, ensure that you avoid processing untrusted FLAC files and implement input validation to mitigate potential exploitation.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for libsndfile.
