CVE-2023-40141 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
In temp_residency_name_store of thermal_metrics.c, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-40141 resides within the thermal_metrics.c source file, specifically within the temp_residency_name_store function where a critical out of bounds write condition exists. This flaw represents a classic buffer overflow vulnerability that occurs when the program fails to validate the boundaries of memory allocation before writing data to memory locations. The absence of proper bounds checking in this thermal management component creates an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to write data beyond the allocated memory buffer. Such vulnerabilities typically arise when developers assume that input data will remain within expected parameters without implementing adequate validation mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level within thermal management subsystems that monitor and control system temperature, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a failure in input validation and memory management practices that aligns with CWE-121, which describes the classic stack buffer overflow scenario. When the temp_residency_name_store function processes temperature residency data, it does not verify that the incoming data length matches the allocated buffer size before performing memory writes. This condition creates a situation where an attacker can craft malicious input that exceeds the buffer boundaries, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including function return addresses, stack canaries, or other critical kernel data structures. The vulnerability operates without requiring user interaction, meaning it can be exploited automatically by any process running with minimal privileges, which significantly increases its attack surface and potential impact. The lack of user interaction requirement makes this a particularly dangerous vulnerability as it can be triggered through normal system operations or by malicious software already present on the system.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-40141 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides a pathway for local privilege escalation attacks that can elevate user-level processes to kernel-level privileges. This escalation capability means that an attacker who gains access to a low-privilege account can potentially gain complete system control without requiring additional authentication or execution privileges. The vulnerability affects systems that implement thermal management features, which are present in virtually all modern computing devices including desktops, servers, and mobile devices. The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to persistent system compromise, data exfiltration, and complete system takeover. The attack vector leverages the kernel's thermal management subsystem, which typically runs with elevated privileges, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where privilege separation is critical for security. The lack of user interaction requirements means that exploitation can occur during normal system operation, making detection and prevention significantly more challenging.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-40141 should focus on implementing proper bounds checking and input validation within the thermal_metrics.c source code. The most effective immediate solution involves adding comprehensive length validation before memory writes occur in the temp_residency_name_store function, ensuring that all input data conforms to expected buffer size limitations. System administrators should prioritize applying vendor patches and updates that address this specific vulnerability, as these typically include the necessary code modifications to prevent buffer overflows. Additional protective measures include implementing kernel address space layout randomization, enabling stack canaries, and deploying kernel module signing requirements to prevent unauthorized code execution. The vulnerability's nature aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation', making it a critical target for defensive security measures. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that detect anomalous kernel memory access patterns and unusual thermal management data processing that could indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security audits of kernel subsystems and comprehensive testing of input validation mechanisms will help prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other system components.