CVE-2007-4974 in libsndfile
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-based buffer overflow in the flac_buffer_copy function in libsndfile 1.0.17 and earlier might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a FLAC file with crafted PCM data containing a block with a size that exceeds the previous block size.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/27/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4974 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow flaw within the libsndfile library version 1.0.17 and earlier. This issue specifically affects the flac_buffer_copy function which processes FLAC audio files, making it particularly dangerous in environments where audio file processing is common. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation during the parsing of FLAC file structures, particularly when handling PCM data blocks that contain size parameters exceeding previous block sizes. This condition creates a scenario where memory allocation calculations become corrupted, leading to potential memory corruption that can be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through carefully crafted FLAC files that manipulate the block size parameters within the audio file structure. When the flac_buffer_copy function processes these malformed blocks, it fails to properly validate the relationship between consecutive block sizes, resulting in a situation where a subsequent block allocation attempts to write beyond the bounds of previously allocated heap memory. This heap corruption directly violates memory safety principles and creates opportunities for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of improper input validation leading to memory corruption.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across numerous applications that rely on libsndfile for audio file processing, including media players, audio editing software, and content management systems. Attackers can remotely exploit this weakness by delivering maliciously crafted FLAC files through various attack vectors such as web downloads, email attachments, or file sharing platforms. The remote execution capability makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in server environments where audio file processing occurs automatically. Systems utilizing affected versions of libsndfile are at risk of complete compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to privilege escalation and persistent access to compromised systems. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers legitimate programs being used for code execution, and T1059, which involves command and scripting interpreters.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4974 require immediate patching of libsndfile to version 1.0.18 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for proper block size validation. Organizations should implement comprehensive software inventory management to identify all systems utilizing vulnerable libsndfile versions, particularly in media processing pipelines and audio handling applications. Network-based defenses should include content filtering and file validation mechanisms that scan for potentially malicious audio files before processing. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting and privilege separation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date third-party libraries and implementing robust input validation practices in multimedia processing applications. Organizations should also establish incident response procedures specifically addressing audio file processing vulnerabilities, as the exploitation timeline may not be immediately apparent and could allow for extended periods of unauthorized access.