CVE-2023-28557 in 315 5G IoT Modem
Summary
by MITRE • 09/05/2023
Memory corruption in WLAN HAL while processing command parameters from untrusted WMI payload.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/28/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption issue within the Wireless Local Area Network Hardware Abstraction Layer that occurs when processing command parameters from untrusted WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) payloads. The flaw exists in how the WLAN HAL handles input validation and parameter processing, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate memory structures through malicious WMI commands. Such vulnerabilities typically arise from insufficient bounds checking and improper input sanitization mechanisms within system-level components that interface with wireless networking hardware.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate parameter validation within the WMI command processing pipeline of the WLAN HAL module. When untrusted WMI payloads are received, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the incoming command parameters before passing them to memory allocation and processing functions. This allows attackers to craft malicious WMI commands that can trigger buffer overflows, use-after-free conditions, or other memory corruption scenarios. The vulnerability manifests as a direct result of CWE-121, which encompasses buffer overflow conditions, and may also involve CWE-787, representing out-of-bounds writes in memory operations. The attack vector specifically leverages the WMI interface as an entry point for privilege escalation or remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption to potentially enable full system compromise when exploited successfully. An attacker with access to WMI commands could execute arbitrary code within the context of the WLAN HAL service, potentially elevating privileges and gaining control over wireless networking functionality. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where WMI is commonly used for system management and remote administration. The vulnerability may also enable lateral movement within networks as attackers exploit the wireless infrastructure to pivot to other systems, making it particularly dangerous in corporate or government environments with extensive wireless deployments. According to ATT&CK framework methodology, this represents a technique under T1059.001 for command and script interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing robust input validation mechanisms within the WMI command processing pipeline and strengthening memory protection features such as address space layout randomization and data execution prevention. System administrators should ensure that only authorized WMI connections are permitted and implement strict access controls for WMI interfaces. Regular patching of affected systems and monitoring for anomalous WMI activity can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing network segmentation to isolate wireless infrastructure from critical systems and deploying intrusion detection systems that monitor for suspicious WMI command patterns can provide additional layers of defense against this class of vulnerability. The remediation process should also include comprehensive code reviews focusing on memory handling procedures and input validation routines within the WLAN HAL component to prevent similar issues in future development cycles.