External risk intelligence

AudioSession Double Free Vulnerability Allows Remote Code Execution

CVE advisorySeverity: CRITICAL (CVSS 9.8)

CVE-2026-56971

The vulnerability exists in an internal audio session component (AudioSession.cpp). Audio processing subsystems are typically local, sandboxed, or peripheral-focused rather than internet-facing services. There is no evidence suggesting this component acts as a public-facing network gateway or edge service.

Remote Code Execution

Halo Surface Signal: 1 out of 5 — much less likely to be public-facing.

External exposure likelihood

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

This critical vulnerability in an internal audio processing component could allow remote code execution without user interaction, potentially impacting systems that handle audio sessions. The main concern is confirming relevance and exposure.

  • A code error could let attackers run unauthorized code.
  • It affects internal audio handling, not typically internet-facing.
  • Confirm if this specific audio component is in use.

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker could potentially trigger a double free vulnerability within the AudioSession component. This could happen by sending a specially crafted event, leading to remote code execution without requiring any user interaction or special privileges.

  • Network exposure
  • Sending specific audio events
  • Remote code execution

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

A logic error in the audio session handling could allow an attacker to remotely execute code on a device. This could occur without any user interaction or elevated privileges, potentially impacting the device's overall integrity and confidentiality.

  • System audio processing could be compromised.
  • Network access enables the vulnerability.
  • Remote code execution leading to full control.

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

The identified vulnerability in the AudioSession component likely impacts platform or device teams responsible for audio subsystems. Initial triage should focus on identifying where this component is deployed, assessing its reachability and criticality, and then confirming the accountable owner for remediation planning.

  • Identify affected systems and owners.
  • Verify exposure and business criticality.
  • Plan remediation based on risk.

Supplementary metadata

Validate whether this threat affects your internet-facing exposure.

Halo Threat Intelligence helps prioritize remediation with Halo Surface Signal and H/A/L/O context. Start exposure validation with a free external attack surface trial.

Frequently asked questions

What is the AudioSession component affected by CVE-2026-56971?

AudioSession is a software component responsible for managing and processing audio streams on a device. It handles the lifecycle of audio playback and recording tasks, ensuring that data flows correctly between hardware and applications. This specific component is part of the system's internal audio framework.

What does a double free vulnerability mean for this CVE?

This vulnerability is classified as CWE-415, which refers to a double free memory error. It happens when a program attempts to release the same memory location twice, leading to unstable system behavior. In the context of CVE-2026-56971, this logic error can be manipulated to run unauthorized commands or code remotely.

How does an attacker trigger this vulnerability?

The issue is triggered by sending a specially crafted event to the audio session handler. The system processes this event, and the flaw in the logic causes the double free error. Importantly, this does not require any user interaction, such as clicking a link or opening a file, and no special account privileges are needed to initiate the sequence.

Is my system at risk if it is not internet-facing?

Halo Surface Signal indicates it is very unlikely for this vulnerability to be reached from the internet, as audio processing subsystems are generally local or sandboxed. While the CVSS vector identifies a network attack vector, the component typically lacks the public-facing gateway characteristics that would make it easily reachable by remote threats.

What should I do if my infrastructure uses this technology?

Your first step is to identify where the AudioSession component is deployed within your device fleet or platform architecture. Once identified, evaluate the system's role and connectivity to determine if it is exposed to untrusted networks. Coordinate with the teams responsible for your audio subsystems to track updates and plan for necessary security patches.

References