CVE-2019-7575 in Simple DirectMedia Layer
Summary
by MITRE
SDL (Simple DirectMedia Layer) through 1.2.15 and 2.x through 2.0.9 has a heap-based buffer overflow in MS_ADPCM_decode in audio/SDL_wave.c.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-7575 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within the Simple DirectMedia Layer library version 1.2.15 and all 2.x versions up to 2.0.9. This flaw exists within the MS_ADPCM_decode function located in the audio/SDL_wave.c file, making it a significant security concern for applications that utilize this multimedia framework for audio processing. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking during the decoding of Microsoft ADPCM audio formats, which are commonly used in various gaming and multimedia applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the SDL library processes audio data encoded with Microsoft ADPCM format. During the decoding process, the MS_ADPCM_decode function fails to properly validate the size of input buffers before writing decoded data to heap memory locations. This improper memory management allows an attacker to craft malicious audio files that, when processed by vulnerable applications, can cause the function to write beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. The heap overflow occurs because the decoder does not account for potential variations in encoded data size or unexpected data structures that could exceed the expected buffer dimensions, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across numerous software domains where SDL is implemented, including gaming engines, multimedia applications, and embedded systems. Applications using vulnerable versions of SDL are susceptible to remote code execution when processing untrusted audio content, particularly in scenarios involving networked multiplayer games or media players that automatically download and play audio files. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious file downloads, networked media streams, or crafted audio files delivered via email attachments. Security researchers have classified this as a high-severity issue due to its potential for remote exploitation and the widespread use of SDL across multiple platforms and development environments.
Organizations and developers should immediately upgrade to SDL versions 1.2.16 or 2.0.10 and later, which contain the necessary patches to address this heap overflow vulnerability. The fix implemented in these updated versions includes enhanced bounds checking mechanisms within the MS_ADPCM_decode function, ensuring that input data sizes are properly validated before buffer operations occur. Additionally, developers should implement input sanitization techniques and consider using memory-safe programming practices when integrating SDL libraries into their applications. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and represents a potential entry point for attackers following MITRE ATT&CK tactics including execution through malicious file formats and privilege escalation via code injection techniques. System administrators should also monitor for any applications that may still be using vulnerable SDL versions and ensure proper patch management protocols are in place to prevent exploitation.