CVE-2014-8962 in libFLAC
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in stream_decoder.c in libFLAC before 1.3.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted .flac file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/04/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8962 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the libFLAC library version 1.3.1 and earlier. This issue resides in the stream_decoder.c component of the Free Lossless Audio Codec implementation, which is widely used for audio file processing across multiple platforms and applications. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation during the parsing of FLAC audio files, specifically when handling certain malformed data structures that trigger improper memory management during decoding operations. The vulnerability manifests when a remote attacker crafts a specially designed .flac file that exploits the buffer overflow condition, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution on systems that process such audio files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic stack-based buffer overflow pattern where insufficient bounds checking occurs during the processing of audio frame data. When the libFLAC library attempts to decode a malformed FLAC file, the decoder fails to properly validate the size of incoming data buffers before copying data onto the stack. This allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations, potentially corrupting the return address or other critical execution context. The flaw aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions. The vulnerability can be leveraged through various attack vectors including web browsers, media players, or any application that utilizes libFLAC for audio processing, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users might encounter untrusted audio content.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-8962 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system takeover. The vulnerability affects a wide range of software applications that depend on libFLAC for audio processing, including media players, audio editing software, web browsers, and content management systems. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to multiple techniques including T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1133 External Remote Services, as attackers can exploit the vulnerability to gain remote code execution capabilities. The attack surface is particularly broad since libFLAC is integrated into numerous open source and commercial software packages, creating widespread potential for exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8962 primarily focus on immediate software updates and patch management. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to libFLAC version 1.3.1 or later, which includes the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Additionally, implementing input validation controls at network boundaries, such as content filtering and file type verification, can help prevent exploitation attempts. Security configurations should include disabling unnecessary audio processing capabilities and restricting file type handling in applications that process user-supplied content. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can further reduce the attack surface by limiting which systems can process potentially malicious audio files. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and penetration testing of audio processing components, particularly those handling untrusted input data, to identify similar buffer overflow conditions that could exist in other multimedia libraries.