CVE-2012-2108 in Csound
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer 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.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2108 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Csound audio synthesis and music composition software suite. This vulnerability specifically affects versions prior to 5.17.2 and manifests in the main function of the util/lpci_main.c source file during file conversion operations. The flaw occurs when the application processes specially crafted input files, creating a condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overwrite stack memory. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables remote code execution when an unsuspecting user opens or processes a maliciously crafted file, making it a prime target for exploitation in various attack scenarios.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of memory layout during file processing operations within the Csound application's conversion pipeline. When the application encounters a crafted input file, the buffer overflow occurs in the main processing function where user-supplied data is copied or manipulated without proper validation of input length or boundaries. The stack-based nature of the vulnerability means that the overflow can overwrite return addresses, saved registers, and other critical stack frame data, potentially allowing an attacker to redirect program execution flow. This type of vulnerability is classified under the ATT&CK framework as T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, though more specifically relates to T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution and T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation in its operational context. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond the simple act of opening or processing the malicious file, making it particularly effective for social engineering attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-2108 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity violations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the affected user, potentially leading to full system compromise if the application runs with elevated permissions. The vulnerability affects users who process audio files or use Csound for music composition, making it particularly concerning for musicians, audio engineers, and developers who frequently work with various audio file formats. The remote aspect of the attack means that malicious files could be distributed through various channels including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms, significantly expanding the attack surface. Additionally, the vulnerability's presence in a widely-used audio processing application means that successful exploitation could affect numerous users across different industries, from entertainment production to scientific research applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-2108 should prioritize immediate software updates to version 5.17.2 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all instances of Csound are updated promptly, particularly in environments where users may process untrusted audio files. Input validation controls should be enhanced to include bounds checking and size verification for all file processing operations, implementing proper memory management practices that prevent stack buffer overflows. Network segmentation and user access controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting access to vulnerable systems. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file processing activities and potential exploitation attempts, while application whitelisting can prevent execution of unauthorized binaries. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices including proper buffer management and input validation, aligning with industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and CERT/CC secure coding guidelines. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and prevent future occurrences of stack-based buffer overflow conditions.