CVE-2023-37770 in faust
Summary
by MITRE • 07/17/2023
faust commit ee39a19 was discovered to contain a stack overflow via the component boxppShared::print() at /boxes/ppbox.cpp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-37770 represents a critical stack overflow condition within the faust software framework, specifically within the boxppShared::print() function located in the /boxes/ppbox.cpp source file. This issue arises from improper input validation and memory management practices during the execution of print operations, creating an exploitable condition that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability. The vulnerability was introduced in the faust commit ee39a19, indicating a specific code change that introduced the flawed memory handling logic. Stack overflow vulnerabilities of this nature are particularly dangerous because they can be exploited to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate program execution flow and execute malicious code.
The technical flaw manifests when the boxppShared::print() function processes input data without adequate bounds checking or buffer size validation. This function likely handles string formatting or data serialization operations that can exceed allocated stack memory boundaries. The vulnerability stems from CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overwrite adjacent stack memory. When the print function receives input that exceeds the predetermined buffer size, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting return addresses, function pointers, or other critical program state information. This condition creates a pathway for attackers to manipulate the program's execution flow through controlled input data.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-37770 extends beyond simple system crashes, as it provides potential attack vectors for remote code execution within systems that utilize the affected faust framework components. Systems employing this software for audio processing, signal analysis, or real-time data handling may become vulnerable to exploitation, particularly when processing untrusted input data through the print functionality. The vulnerability affects applications that rely on the boxppShared::print() function for logging, debugging, or data presentation purposes, creating widespread potential impact across various deployment scenarios. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected process, potentially leading to complete system compromise or denial of service conditions that disrupt legitimate operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-37770 should prioritize immediate code review and patch implementation to address the buffer overflow condition within the boxppShared::print() function. Security teams should implement input validation measures that enforce strict bounds checking on all data passed to the print function, ensuring that buffer sizes are properly managed and that input data cannot exceed allocated memory limits. The implementation of stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and other exploit mitigation techniques can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive code audits to identify similar patterns within the faust framework that might exhibit analogous vulnerabilities, as the underlying issue may extend beyond this single function. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious input patterns and implementing robust logging mechanisms can help detect exploitation attempts and provide forensic evidence for incident response activities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation may involve injecting malicious code through controlled input data that triggers the stack overflow condition.