SoundTouch WavInFile::readHeaderBlock() Function Heap-Based Buffer Overflow Vulnerability [CVE-2018-1000223]

CVE Number – CVE-2018-1000223

A vulnerability in the WavInFile::readHeaderBlock() function of SoundTouch could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on a targeted system.

The vulnerability exists in the WavInFile::readHeaderBlock() function, as defined in the SoundStretch/WavFile.cpp file of the affected software, and is due to the use of a signed integer instead of an unsigned integer when the size of a structure is calculated. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by persuading a user to open a file with the SoundStretch utility that submits malicious input to the targeted system. A successful exploit could trigger a heap-based buffer overflow condition that the attacker could use to execute arbitrary code on the system.

Proof-of-concept (PoC) code that demonstrates an exploit of this vulnerability is publicly available.

SoundTouch has confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.

• To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker may use misleading language or instructions to persuade a user to open a file with the SoundStretch utility that submits malicious input to the targeted system.

• Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.

  Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.

  Users are advised not to open email messages from suspicious or unrecognized sources. If users cannot verify that links or attachments included in email messages are safe, they are advised not to open them.

  Users are advised not to visit websites or follow links that have suspicious characteristics or cannot be verified as safe.

  Administrators are advised to use an unprivileged account when browsing the Internet.

  Administrators are advised to monitor critical systems.

• SoundTouch has released an issue report at the following link: Heap-based buffer overflow in SoundStretch/WavFile.cpp:WavInFile::readHeaderBlock()

• SoundTouch has released software updates at the following link: SoundTouch 2.1

Duncan

Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.