CVE-2009-4668 in jetAudio
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in JetCast.exe 2.0.4.1109 in jetAudio 7.5.2 and 7.5.3.15 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long ID3 tag in an MP3 file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4668 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw affecting JetCast.exe version 2.0.4.1109 which is part of jetAudio 7.5.2 and 7.5.3.15 software suites. This vulnerability resides in the media processing component responsible for handling ID3 metadata tags within MP3 audio files, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The flaw manifests when the application processes malformed ID3 tags containing excessive data that exceeds the allocated buffer space, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the ID3 tag parsing routine. When jetAudio encounters an MP3 file with an oversized ID3 tag, the application fails to properly bounds-check the tag data before copying it into a fixed-size stack buffer. This classic buffer overflow condition allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data, enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability specifically affects the JetCast.exe component which handles streaming and casting functionality, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through network-based media delivery.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for users who may unknowingly download or receive MP3 files containing maliciously crafted ID3 tags. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers can deliver payloads through various vectors including malicious websites, email attachments, or peer-to-peer networks without requiring local system access. The attack surface extends beyond individual users to include organizations that may unknowingly process compromised media files through their media servers or streaming platforms. The impact of successful exploitation includes complete system compromise, data theft, and potential lateral movement within network environments where vulnerable systems exist.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as mapping to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter. Mitigation strategies include immediate patching of affected jetAudio versions, implementing network-based restrictions on MP3 file processing, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious ID3 tag patterns. Organizations should also consider disabling automatic media processing features and implementing strict file validation protocols for media content before ingestion. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in multimedia processing applications and demonstrates how seemingly benign metadata fields can become attack vectors in software applications.