CVE-2023-20676 in MT5221
Summary
by MITRE • 04/06/2023
In wlan, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS07588569; Issue ID: ALPS07628518.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-20676 resides within the wireless local area network subsystem of an operating system, specifically affecting the wlan component that manages wireless connectivity and network communications. This issue represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the wireless networking stack. The vulnerability manifests as a missing bounds check during memory access operations, creating a potential out-of-bounds read condition that can be exploited by malicious actors with system-level privileges.
The technical flaw occurs when the wlan component processes incoming wireless network packets or configuration data without proper validation of array indices or buffer boundaries. This missing bounds check allows an attacker to craft specially malformed wireless frames or network configurations that cause the system to read memory locations beyond the intended buffer limits. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system execution level, meaning that exploitation requires only system privileges rather than elevated administrative rights, making it accessible to processes running with standard system permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the out-of-bounds read can potentially expose sensitive kernel memory contents, including cryptographic keys, authentication credentials, or other confidential data stored in memory regions. Attackers can leverage this condition to extract proprietary information, system configuration details, or even credentials that could be used for further exploitation within the network environment. The fact that no user interaction is required for exploitation makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be triggered automatically during normal wireless network operations, potentially allowing for stealthy information harvesting.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses insufficient bounds checking in array access operations, and represents a classic example of memory safety issues that have plagued operating system components for decades. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, as it can be used to gain access to sensitive system information that could facilitate further attacks. The patch identified as ALPS07588569 addresses the root cause by implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms within the wlan subsystem, ensuring that all memory access operations validate their indices against buffer boundaries before execution.
Organizations should prioritize applying the available patch immediately, as the vulnerability creates a persistent risk for wireless network security. The lack of user interaction requirements means that attackers can exploit this vulnerability during routine wireless network operations, potentially leading to continuous information leakage. Network administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring of wireless network traffic to detect anomalous packet patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should review system logs for unusual memory access patterns and consider implementing memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries or address space layout randomization to mitigate potential exploitation scenarios.