CVE-2017-1000010 in Audacity
Summary
by MITRE
Audacity version 2.1.2 is vulnerable to Dll HIjacking in the avformat-55.dll resulting arbitrary code execution
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000010 affects Audacity version 2.1.2 and represents a critical dll hijacking flaw that can lead to arbitrary code execution on affected systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the avformat-55.dll component within the audio editing software, creating a dangerous attack vector that adversaries can exploit to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious code. The issue stems from improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms within the application's runtime environment, where the software fails to properly validate or restrict the paths from which required dll files are loaded.
The technical flaw manifests when Audacity attempts to load the avformat-55.dll library during normal operation, creating an opportunity for attackers to place malicious dll files in directories that are searched before the legitimate library location. This behavior aligns with common dll hijacking techniques documented in the cybersecurity community and represents a classic example of insecure library loading practices. The vulnerability operates under the broader category of CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which specifically addresses situations where applications search for libraries in insecure locations that can be manipulated by attackers. When a user opens certain audio files or performs operations that trigger the loading of the affected dll, the system will load a malicious version of avformat-55.dll from a location within the search path that has been compromised by the attacker.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to affected systems and enables them to perform a wide range of malicious activities. Once successfully exploited, an attacker can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running Audacity, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning because audio editing software like Audacity is commonly used across various environments including corporate networks, educational institutions, and personal computers, making it an attractive target for threat actors seeking to establish footholds within these systems. This vulnerability can be exploited through social engineering techniques where users are tricked into opening malicious audio files or through targeted attacks against systems where the software is installed and regularly used.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-1000010 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary recommendation is to upgrade to a patched version of Audacity that addresses the dll loading vulnerability, as this represents the most direct and effective solution to eliminate the threat. System administrators should also implement security controls such as application whitelisting policies that restrict which dll files can be loaded by Audacity and other applications, thereby preventing unauthorized code execution. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by running Audacity with minimal required permissions and avoiding execution as administrator or system user accounts. Network-level defenses such as intrusion detection systems and endpoint protection solutions can help detect suspicious dll loading patterns and unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper library loading mechanisms, which aligns with the broader security framework defined by the ATT&CK methodology under the T1059.001 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers may use the compromised system to execute additional malicious payloads or establish persistence mechanisms. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar insecure library loading practices in other applications within their environment.