CVE-2012-2106 in Csound
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the pv_import function in util/pv_import.c in Csound 5.16.6, when converting a file, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted file, which triggers a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2106 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the Csound audio synthesis software version 5.16.6. This issue resides in the pv_import function located in the util/pv_import.c source file, specifically during file conversion operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper integer handling when processing audio files, creating a pathway for remote code execution through maliciously crafted input files. The integer overflow occurs during the calculation of buffer sizes needed for file processing, where an attacker can manipulate the input data to cause arithmetic overflow conditions that ultimately result in heap-based buffer overflows.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-defined attack pattern that aligns with common software security weaknesses classified under CWE-190 as "Integer Overflow or Wraparound." When Csound processes a specially crafted file, the pv_import function performs calculations that should determine the appropriate memory allocation for buffer operations. However, due to the integer overflow condition, the calculated buffer size becomes significantly smaller than the actual data being processed, leading to heap memory corruption. This heap-based buffer overflow creates opportunities for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected application process.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-2106 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it represents a serious threat to systems running Csound in networked environments. Since the vulnerability can be triggered remotely through file conversion operations, attackers can exploit this weakness without requiring local access to the target system. This makes it particularly dangerous in scenarios where Csound is used for audio processing in web applications, media servers, or collaborative audio environments. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the affected systems, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data loss, or service disruption.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and system hardening measures. The primary solution involves updating to a patched version of Csound that addresses the integer overflow condition in the pv_import function. Organizations should also implement input validation controls and file type restrictions to prevent processing of untrusted audio files. Additionally, deploying network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. From a defensive perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper integer arithmetic handling in security-critical applications and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter execution, as successful exploitation would likely involve code injection attacks targeting the vulnerable heap memory regions. The vulnerability also emphasizes the need for comprehensive code review processes and static analysis tools to identify similar integer overflow conditions in legacy software systems.