CVE-2023-26074 in Exynos 850
Summary
by MITRE • 03/13/2023
An issue was discovered in Samsung Mobile Chipset and Baseband Modem Chipset for Exynos 850, Exynos 980, Exynos 1080, Exynos 1280, Exynos 2200, Exynos Modem 5123, Exynos Modem 5300, Exynos Auto T5123, and Exynos W920. A heap-based buffer overflow in the 5G MM message codec can occur due to insufficient parameter validation when decoding operator-defined access category definitions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-26074 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow within Samsung's mobile chipset ecosystem affecting multiple Exynos processor variants including the 850, 980, 1080, 1280, and 2200 models along with various modem chipsets. This flaw exists in the 5G MM message codec component responsible for processing operator-defined access category definitions during network communication. The vulnerability stems from inadequate parameter validation mechanisms during the decoding process, creating opportunities for malicious actors to exploit memory corruption through specially crafted 5G network messages. The affected hardware spans Samsung's premium smartphone lineup and automotive systems utilizing Exynos chipsets, making this a widespread concern across multiple device categories and deployment environments.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the 5G MM message codec processes operator-defined access category definitions without proper bounds checking or input validation. This heap-based buffer overflow allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory boundaries, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The flaw specifically manifests during the decoding phase of 5G network messages where the system fails to validate the size or format of operator-defined parameters before attempting to process them. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Heap-based Buffer Overflow, which occurs when data is written beyond the bounds of heap-allocated memory regions. The exploitation requires the attacker to be in proximity to a target device or to have network access to inject malicious 5G messages, making it particularly concerning for mobile network environments where such attacks could be executed through network infrastructure.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-26074 extends beyond individual device compromise to potentially affect entire network ecosystems and mobile infrastructure. Mobile network operators utilizing affected Exynos chipsets could face service disruption, unauthorized access to network communications, or complete device compromise. The vulnerability's presence in automotive systems such as the Exynos Auto T5123 and W920 platforms introduces additional safety concerns, as compromised vehicle communication systems could impact vehicle operation and passenger safety. This flaw also represents a significant concern for the mobile industry's 5G deployment strategy, as it affects core network processing components that handle critical communication protocols. The vulnerability's exploitation could enable advanced persistent threats to establish footholds within mobile networks, potentially allowing for extended surveillance or data exfiltration operations that align with ATT&CK technique T1566 for initial access through phishing or network infrastructure compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should encompass both immediate patch deployment and network-level protective measures. Samsung has issued firmware updates addressing the heap overflow in affected chipsets, requiring device users to apply these updates promptly to prevent exploitation. Network operators should implement monitoring for anomalous 5G MM message patterns and consider deploying intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts. Device manufacturers should enforce strict input validation procedures in all network protocol implementations and implement memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries or address space layout randomization. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and adherence to industry standards like the CWE guidelines for preventing buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their mobile infrastructure and implement network segmentation strategies to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, security researchers and network administrators should monitor for potential zero-day exploitation attempts and maintain updated threat intelligence feeds related to mobile network vulnerabilities.