CVE-2008-5008 in Secret Rabbit Code
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in src/src_sinc.c in Secret Rabbit Code (aka SRC or libsamplerate) before 0.1.4, when "extreme low conversion ratios" are used, allows user-assisted attackers to have an unknown impact via a crafted audio file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5008 represents a critical buffer overflow condition within the Secret Rabbit Code library, specifically in the src_sinc.c source file. This library serves as a crucial component for audio sample rate conversion in numerous multimedia applications and systems. The flaw manifests when the library processes audio files with extreme low conversion ratios, a scenario that occurs when converting from a high sample rate to a significantly lower one. The buffer overflow vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and memory management within the sinc interpolation algorithm implementation, which is fundamental to the library's operation. The affected version range prior to 0.1.4 indicates that this was a long-standing issue that had been present in the codebase for an extended period, potentially affecting countless applications that depend on this library for audio processing capabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires a crafted audio file that triggers the specific conditions leading to the buffer overflow. When an application using the vulnerable version of libsamplerate processes such a file, the sinc interpolation algorithm fails to properly manage memory allocation for temporary buffers used during the conversion process. This failure occurs specifically under extreme low conversion ratios where the mathematical computations required for interpolation exceed the allocated buffer boundaries. The vulnerability is classified as user-assisted because it requires an attacker to provide a maliciously constructed audio file, but the impact can be severe as it allows for arbitrary code execution or system instability. The unknown impact mentioned in the description reflects the potential for various outcomes including denial of service, information disclosure, or complete system compromise depending on the execution environment and how the vulnerable library is integrated into applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond individual application failures to potentially affect entire multimedia ecosystems that rely on the Secret Rabbit Code library. Applications including audio players, multimedia frameworks, digital audio workstations, and various system utilities that utilize libsamplerate for sample rate conversion could be compromised. This vulnerability particularly affects systems where audio file processing is automated or where users can upload audio content, as it could enable attackers to execute malicious code on systems running vulnerable software. The widespread adoption of this library across different platforms and applications means that the potential attack surface is extensive, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous from a security perspective. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-121 indicates it involves stack-based buffer overflow conditions, while its potential for arbitrary code execution aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5008 focus primarily on upgrading to version 0.1.4 or later of the Secret Rabbit Code library, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all systems and applications that utilize this library, as the vulnerability may be present in various multimedia frameworks and software packages. Additionally, implementing input validation measures at application level can provide an additional layer of protection, though this does not fully address the root cause within the library itself. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual audio file processing patterns and potential attempts to exploit this vulnerability through crafted media files. The patching process should be prioritized for critical systems and applications handling user-provided audio content, as these represent the highest risk exposure scenarios. Regular security assessments and dependency updates are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in the software supply chain.