CVE-2023-30697 in Smart Phone
Summary
by MITRE • 08/10/2023
An improper input validation in IpcTxCfgSetSimlockPayload in libsec-ril prior to SMR Aug-2023 Release 1 allows attacker to cause out-of-bounds write.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-30697 represents a critical input validation flaw within the IpcTxCfgSetSimlockPayload function of the libsec-ril library, affecting systems prior to the SMR Aug-2023 Release 1. This issue resides in the communication layer between the cellular radio interface and security management components, specifically targeting the SIM lock configuration functionality. The flaw manifests when the system processes incoming configuration payloads intended for SIM lock settings, creating a pathway for malicious input to trigger memory corruption behaviors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the IpcTxCfgSetSimlockPayload function, which fails to properly validate the length and content of incoming data structures. When an attacker crafts malicious input data that exceeds expected buffer boundaries, the system performs an out-of-bounds write operation, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can result in arbitrary code execution, system instability, or privilege escalation depending on the execution context and memory layout. The vulnerability operates at the interface level between modem firmware and application processors, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through legitimate communication channels.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across multiple threat vectors within mobile device security architectures. Attackers can leverage this flaw through various attack surfaces including SMS messages, cellular network commands, or direct modem interface manipulation. The out-of-bounds write behavior creates opportunities for persistent compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system control or data exfiltration. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where mobile devices handle sensitive information or operate in high-security contexts, as it could enable adversaries to bypass security controls designed to protect SIM lock configurations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-30697 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to the SMR Aug-2023 Release 1 or subsequent versions that contain proper input validation patches. Organizations should implement network-level monitoring to detect anomalous SIM lock configuration requests and establish robust input sanitization processes within the communication stack. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and potentially maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution. Security teams should also consider implementing runtime application protection measures and memory corruption detection mechanisms to defend against exploitation attempts.
This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in security-critical communication interfaces, particularly within modem and radio interface libraries that handle sensitive device configuration data. The flaw represents a classic example of how insufficient bounds checking in system-level components can create pathways for remote code execution. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their mobile device security stacks and implement layered defenses to protect against similar issues in other system components that handle untrusted input data from cellular interfaces.