CVE-2023-43549 in Snapdragon
Summary
by MITRE • 03/04/2024
Memory corruption while processing TPC target power table in FTM TPC.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-43549 represents a critical memory corruption issue within the Firmware Test Mode (FTM) TPC target power table processing functionality. This flaw exists in wireless communication chipsets that implement the 802.11 standard, specifically affecting the way devices handle transmission power control parameters during factory testing and calibration procedures. The vulnerability manifests when the system attempts to process target power tables that define the power levels for different transmission channels and operating conditions, creating a scenario where improper memory handling can lead to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical root cause of this memory corruption stems from inadequate input validation and buffer management within the FTM TPC processing module. When the system receives malformed or unexpected power table data, the memory allocation and processing routines fail to properly bounds-check array accesses or validate data structures, leading to memory overwrite conditions. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though it may also manifest as heap-based corruption depending on the specific implementation details. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates within the firmware testing environment where privileged access levels are typically assumed, allowing an attacker to potentially escalate privileges or corrupt system memory during normal operation.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-43549 extends beyond simple system crashes or hangs, as it can enable remote code execution in scenarios where malicious actors can influence the power table data sent to vulnerable devices. This vulnerability affects wireless chipsets used in enterprise routers, access points, and mobile devices that support 802.11 wireless standards, particularly those implementing FTM functionality for channel estimation and power control optimization. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted power table data to devices during firmware testing phases or by manipulating the device's configuration during normal operation, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where wireless infrastructure devices are not regularly updated or patched, as these systems may remain vulnerable for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate firmware updates from chipset manufacturers to address the memory handling issues in the FTM TPC processing code. System administrators should implement network segmentation to limit access to wireless devices during testing phases and ensure that only authorized personnel can modify power table configurations. The implementation of input validation controls and memory protection mechanisms such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and data execution prevention should be enabled on affected systems. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous power table data patterns or unexpected system behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments of wireless infrastructure components and adherence to security frameworks like NIST SP 800-53 or ISO 27001 can help identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in the broader wireless ecosystem. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1547.001 for registry run keys or startup folder, as exploitation may involve modifying device configurations or creating persistent access points through the compromised power table processing functionality.