CVE-2022-26438 in MT7603
Summary
by MITRE • 08/01/2022
In wifi driver, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: GN20220420013; Issue ID: GN20220420013.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-26438 resides within a wireless network driver component where an out-of-bounds write condition occurs due to insufficient input validation. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that allows for potential privilege escalation, as the missing bounds check enables malicious code to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects the wifi driver subsystem and demonstrates a classic buffer overflow scenario where memory corruption can occur when processing network packets or driver commands. The absence of proper boundary validation creates an exploitable path where an attacker can manipulate memory layout to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This issue is particularly concerning because it requires only system execution privileges for exploitation, meaning that an attacker with minimal access can potentially escalate their privileges to full system control. The vulnerability does not require user interaction, making it especially dangerous as it can be exploited automatically without any human intervention. The patch ID GN20220420013 specifically addresses this issue by implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms within the driver code. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and also relates to CWE-787, representing out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. The operational impact of this flaw extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can potentially allow attackers to bypass security controls, modify system files, or establish persistent access. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability fits within the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the privilege escalation tactic, specifically targeting the 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' technique. The lack of user interaction requirement means that exploitation can occur through automated means, making this vulnerability particularly attractive to malicious actors seeking to establish persistent system compromise. The memory corruption resulting from this out-of-bounds write can lead to system instability, crashes, or more sinisterly, provide a foothold for advanced persistent threats. Security researchers have identified this as a critical issue because it operates at the kernel level within the wifi driver, where memory corruption can have the most severe consequences. The vulnerability demonstrates poor defensive programming practices and highlights the importance of implementing robust input validation and bounds checking in system-level code. Organizations should prioritize immediate patch deployment as this vulnerability can be leveraged for complete system compromise without requiring any user engagement. The fix implemented in patch GN20220420013 involves strengthening memory access controls and adding proper validation checks to prevent data from being written beyond allocated buffer boundaries. This remediation addresses the root cause by ensuring that all memory operations within the wifi driver respect established buffer limits and boundaries. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices in kernel-space drivers where a single flaw can compromise entire system security.