CVE-2012-2107 in Csound
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the main function in util/lpci_main.c in Csound before 5.17.2, when converting a file, allows user-assisted 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-2012-2107 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the Csound audio synthesis and music composition software suite. This issue exists in the main function of the utility module located at util/lpci_main.c in versions prior to 5.17.2, specifically affecting the file conversion process. The flaw manifests when the software attempts to handle specially crafted input files during conversion operations, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited by remote attackers with user assistance. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-190 category of Integer Overflow or Wraparound, which is a well-documented weakness in software systems where integer arithmetic operations produce results that exceed the maximum value representable by the data type, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential security breaches.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully constructed malicious file that, when processed by the vulnerable Csound version, triggers an integer overflow condition. This overflow subsequently leads to a heap-based buffer overflow, which represents a severe memory corruption vulnerability that can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The heap-based buffer overflow creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical program structures or inject malicious code into the execution flow. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered remotely and does not require local system access, making it a prime target for remote code execution attacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a code injection technique under the T1059 category, specifically targeting memory corruption vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized system access.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-2107 extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and availability of systems running vulnerable versions of Csound. Organizations utilizing this software for audio processing, music composition, or scientific sound analysis face significant risks including complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects systems where Csound is used for file conversion processes, which are common in multimedia applications, audio processing pipelines, and educational environments where students and researchers might encounter malicious files. Given that Csound is widely used in academic institutions, music production facilities, and scientific research environments, the potential attack surface for this vulnerability is substantial. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires minimal user interaction beyond the simple act of processing a malicious file, making it particularly dangerous in environments where automated file processing or user-uploaded content is common.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-2107 primarily focus on immediate software updates to versions 5.17.2 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the integer overflow condition. System administrators should prioritize patch management and ensure all instances of Csound are updated across all environments, particularly those handling user-provided content or automated file processing workflows. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict input validation for all file processing operations, deploying network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts, and establishing robust file filtering mechanisms that prevent processing of untrusted or unknown file formats. Security teams should also consider implementing sandboxing techniques for file conversion operations and monitoring for anomalous memory usage patterns that might indicate buffer overflow exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper integer overflow checking in software development, particularly in systems handling user-provided data, and demonstrates how seemingly minor coding errors can result in critical security vulnerabilities with far-reaching consequences.