CVE-2018-18197 in libgig
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in libgig 4.1.0. There is an operator new[] failure (due to a big pSampleLoops heap request) in DLS::Sampler::Sampler in DLS.cpp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/01/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-18197 resides within the libgig library version 4.1.0, specifically affecting the DLS::Sampler::Sampler component in the DLS.cpp file. This issue manifests as an operator new[] failure that occurs when processing large heap requests for pSampleLoops, representing a critical memory management flaw that can potentially compromise system stability and security. The libgig library is commonly used for handling gigasample files and audio data processing within various digital audio applications and software synthesizers. The flaw demonstrates a classic heap-based memory allocation failure that can lead to application crashes or potentially more severe consequences when exploited.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory allocation handling within the DLS::Sampler::Sampler class. When the library processes audio sample loop data, it attempts to allocate substantial memory blocks for pSampleLoops through the operator new[] mechanism. The failure occurs when the requested heap memory size exceeds system limitations or when the allocation logic does not properly handle edge cases involving large sample loop specifications. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of memory corruption issues and aligns with CWE-122, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions. The improper handling of memory allocation requests without sufficient bounds checking or error recovery mechanisms creates a pathway for denial of service attacks or potential exploitation scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-18197 extends beyond simple application instability to encompass broader security implications within audio processing environments. Systems utilizing libgig for audio sample handling, including digital audio workstations, music production software, and embedded audio applications, become vulnerable to crashes when processing malformed or unusually large sample loop specifications. The vulnerability can be triggered through maliciously crafted audio files or sample data that forces the library to attempt excessive heap allocations, potentially causing applications to terminate unexpectedly or consume excessive system resources. From an attacker perspective, this represents a denial of service vector that could be leveraged to disrupt audio processing workflows or potentially as a stepping stone for more sophisticated exploitation techniques. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning in professional audio environments where system reliability and continuous operation are critical.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-18197 should focus on immediate library updates and implementation of robust input validation measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of libgig that addresses the memory allocation handling within the DLS::Sampler::Sampler component. System administrators and software developers should implement comprehensive input validation for audio sample data, particularly when processing external or untrusted audio files. Additional protective measures include implementing memory allocation limits, adding proper error handling for new[] operations, and establishing monitoring mechanisms to detect unusual memory allocation patterns. Security practitioners should consider this vulnerability in the context of ATT&CK framework category T1499, which deals with network denial of service attacks, as the memory allocation failure can effectively render audio applications unavailable. Organizations should also implement application sandboxing and memory protection mechanisms to limit the potential impact of such failures and ensure that vulnerable applications cannot be easily exploited for broader system compromise.