CVE-2018-7254 in Wavpack
Summary
by MITRE
The ParseCaffHeaderConfig function of the cli/caff.c file of WavPack 5.1.0 allows a remote attacker to cause a denial-of-service (global buffer over-read), or possibly trigger a buffer overflow or incorrect memory allocation, via a maliciously crafted CAF file.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7254 resides within the WavPack audio processing library version 5.1.0, specifically in the ParseCaffHeaderConfig function located in the cli/caff.c source file. This flaw represents a critical security issue that can be exploited by remote attackers through the careful crafting of malicious CAF (Core Audio Format) files. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory handling within the audio file parsing routine, creating a dangerous condition where attacker-controlled data can manipulate the program's memory operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability manifests as a global buffer over-read condition that occurs when the ParseCaffHeaderConfig function processes malformed CAF file headers. This buffer over-read vulnerability can potentially escalate to a buffer overflow scenario or result in incorrect memory allocation patterns, fundamentally compromising the stability and security of applications that utilize WavPack for audio file processing. The flaw operates by allowing an attacker to manipulate the size fields within the CAF file header structure, causing the parser to attempt reading beyond the allocated buffer boundaries or to allocate insufficient memory for processing the audio data.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to systems that process audio files from untrusted sources, particularly in environments where WavPack is integrated into media processing pipelines, audio editing software, or content delivery systems. The remote attack vector means that malicious CAF files can be delivered through web applications, file sharing services, or email attachments, potentially affecting end-user systems or server infrastructure. The denial-of-service impact can disrupt audio processing workflows, while the potential for buffer overflow could enable more sophisticated exploitation techniques including arbitrary code execution.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write operations. This flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007, covering the use of scripting languages for execution, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to develop malicious audio processing workflows. Additionally, it corresponds to T1203, covering the exploitation of remote services, given that the vulnerability can be triggered through remote file processing. Organizations utilizing WavPack should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of the library, implementing strict input validation for audio file formats, and deploying network segmentation to limit exposure to untrusted audio content.
The security implications extend beyond simple service disruption, as this vulnerability could potentially be chained with other exploits or used as a foothold for more comprehensive attacks within audio processing environments. System administrators should prioritize patching affected installations, particularly in enterprise environments where audio processing services are exposed to external threats, and consider implementing automated scanning for malicious audio files in high-risk processing workflows. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper memory management and input validation in multimedia processing libraries, where the complexity of audio format parsing creates numerous potential attack surfaces that require careful security consideration.