CVE-2014-9028 in libFLAC
Summary
by MITRE
Heap-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-2014-9028 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the libFLAC library version 1.3.1 and earlier, specifically affecting the stream_decoder.c component. This flaw resides in the decoding process of FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) files, which are widely used for storing and transmitting high-quality audio data. The vulnerability arises from insufficient bounds checking during the parsing of malformed FLAC audio files, creating a condition where an attacker can manipulate the heap memory structure through carefully crafted input data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of audio frame data during the decoding process. When libFLAC processes a maliciously constructed .flac file, the stream_decoder.c module fails to validate the size of data structures before copying them into heap-allocated buffers. This allows an attacker to write beyond the allocated memory boundaries, potentially overwriting adjacent heap metadata or other critical program data. The flaw is classified under CWE-121 as a heap-based buffer overflow, which occurs when a program writes data beyond the boundaries of a heap-allocated buffer, often leading to memory corruption that can be exploited for arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across numerous applications and systems that rely on libFLAC for audio processing, including media players, audio editing software, streaming services, and content management systems. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability by hosting malicious .flac files on web servers, sending them via email attachments, or embedding them in other digital content. When victim applications attempt to decode these crafted files, the buffer overflow can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where automated media processing occurs, such as content delivery networks or media servers that automatically decode user-uploaded audio files.
The exploitation of CVE-2014-9028 aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access through malicious file delivery and privilege escalation via code execution. The vulnerability can be leveraged in phishing campaigns targeting media applications, or as part of broader attack chains where attackers first gain access through other means and then use this flaw to escalate privileges. Organizations using affected versions of libFLAC should implement immediate mitigations including updating to libFLAC 1.3.1 or later, deploying input validation controls, and implementing network segmentation to limit exposure. Additionally, security researchers recommend using memory-safe programming practices and implementing address space layout randomization to reduce exploit reliability, while also monitoring for anomalous behavior in audio processing services that may indicate exploitation attempts.