CVE-2017-9260 in Soundtouch
Summary
by MITRE
The TDStretchSSE::calcCrossCorr function in source/SoundTouch/sse_optimized.cpp in SoundTouch 1.9.2 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (heap-based buffer over-read and application crash) via a crafted wav file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9260 resides within the SoundTouch audio processing library version 1.9.2, specifically within the TDStretchSSE::calcCrossCorr function located in source/SoundTouch/sse_optimized.cpp. This flaw represents a heap-based buffer over-read condition that occurs when processing specially crafted wav files, fundamentally compromising the stability and reliability of applications that utilize this audio processing library. The issue manifests as a denial of service attack vector that can remotely trigger application crashes and system instability, making it particularly dangerous in environments where audio processing is critical to system operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and boundary checking within the audio processing pipeline. When the TDStretchSSE::calcCrossCorr function processes malformed wav data, it fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits before performing cross-correlation calculations. This oversight allows attackers to craft wav files containing maliciously structured data that, when processed by SoundTouch, causes the application to read beyond allocated heap memory boundaries. The vulnerability specifically targets the SSE optimized code path, indicating that the issue is exacerbated when the library leverages SIMD instructions for performance optimization, creating a scenario where the optimized code paths become attack vectors rather than performance enhancers.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-9260 extends beyond simple application crashes to encompass broader system reliability concerns and potential service disruption. Applications relying on SoundTouch for audio processing, including media players, audio editing software, and streaming services, become vulnerable to remote denial of service attacks that can be triggered simply by opening or processing a maliciously crafted wav file. This vulnerability affects systems across multiple platforms where SoundTouch is implemented, including desktop applications, mobile applications, and server-side audio processing systems, creating widespread potential for exploitation. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can potentially exploit it without physical access to the target system, making it particularly concerning for web-based audio processing applications.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1499.004, which involves network denial of service attacks through exploitation of application vulnerabilities. The heap-based buffer over-read represents a classic memory safety issue that can potentially be exploited for more severe consequences, including information disclosure or code execution, depending on the specific implementation context and system configuration. Organizations utilizing SoundTouch in their applications should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader security posture assessment, particularly in environments where audio processing libraries are exposed to untrusted input sources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9260 primarily focus on immediate patching and input validation improvements. The most effective solution involves upgrading to SoundTouch version 1.9.3 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer over-read condition. Additionally, implementing robust input validation mechanisms that sanitize wav file headers and data structures before processing can provide defense-in-depth measures. Organizations should also consider implementing proper memory bounds checking and using address sanitization tools during development and testing phases to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components. Network-level protections such as content filtering and sandboxing mechanisms can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability.