CVE-2017-15221 in ASX to MP3 Converter
Summary
by MITRE
ASX to MP3 converter 3.1.3.7.2010.11.05 has a buffer overflow via a crafted M3U file, a related issue to CVE-2009-1324.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15221 affects the ASX to MP3 converter software version 3.1.3.7.2010.11.05, representing a critical buffer overflow condition that can be exploited through manipulation of M3U playlist files. This issue constitutes a direct descendant of CVE-2009-1324, indicating a persistent flaw in how the application processes media playlist data structures. The vulnerability resides in the software's inability to properly validate input data when parsing M3U files, which are commonly used to store lists of audio or video files for playback. When a maliciously crafted M3U file is processed by the converter, the application fails to enforce proper bounds checking on buffer allocations, creating an exploitable condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic buffer overflow pattern where insufficient input validation allows an attacker to supply data exceeding the allocated buffer size. The M3U file format typically contains a list of media file paths and associated metadata, but when crafted with excessive data or malformed entries, it can trigger memory corruption during parsing operations. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application attempts to read and process the playlist data without proper boundary checks, allowing the overflow to occur in memory regions adjacent to the intended buffer. This condition enables attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code within the context of the application's privileges, as the overflow can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical execution data structures.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15221 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain unauthorized code execution capabilities, potentially allowing for privilege escalation, data exfiltration, or installation of persistent malware. The vulnerability affects systems running the affected software version, particularly those that automatically process or open M3U files from untrusted sources, such as email attachments, web downloads, or shared network locations. Given the widespread use of media conversion tools and playlist files in both personal and enterprise environments, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations that may inadvertently process malicious playlist files during routine media management operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15221 should prioritize immediate software updates from the vendor, as this vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent releases of the ASX to MP3 converter. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures for all playlist file processing, including implementing size limits for M3U files and sanitizing all input data before processing. Network-based defenses should include filtering of playlist file types at network boundaries and implementing sandboxing techniques for any automated media processing systems. From a defensive standpoint, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 for execution through malicious file processing. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted media conversion tools and establish monitoring procedures to detect unusual file processing activities that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the persistent nature of buffer overflow issues in legacy software and underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches for multimedia processing applications.