CVE-2024-11344 in Lexmark
Summary
by MITRE • 02/13/2025
A type confusion vulnerability has been identified in the Postscript interpreter in various Lexmark devices. The vulnerability can be leveraged by an attacker to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2024-11344 represents a critical type confusion issue within the PostScript interpreter component of multiple Lexmark printer models, constituting a significant security risk for enterprise environments. This flaw exists in the handling of data types during PostScript processing, where the interpreter fails to properly validate type information when processing maliciously crafted print jobs. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and type checking mechanisms within the embedded interpreter, creating a condition where an attacker can manipulate the type of data structures during execution, leading to unpredictable behavior.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a specially crafted PostScript file that causes the interpreter to incorrectly handle data types during processing. This type confusion allows the attacker to manipulate memory layout and execution flow, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the printing service. The flaw manifests specifically during the interpretation phase of PostScript commands, where the system's type checking mechanisms are bypassed or corrupted, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for code execution. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-843, which describes the weakness of accessing a resource using an incorrect type, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through PostScript.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to networked printing environments where Lexmark devices are deployed. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish footholds within corporate networks, potentially escalating privileges and moving laterally through the environment. The PostScript interpreter serves as a critical component in many enterprise printing workflows, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it affects devices that are often considered trusted network endpoints. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require special privileges or authentication, making it accessible to attackers who can submit print jobs to affected devices.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through firmware updates provided by Lexmark, as the vulnerability affects multiple device models across different product lines. Network segmentation strategies should be implemented to limit access to printing services, while monitoring systems should be enhanced to detect unusual print job patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider disabling unnecessary PostScript processing capabilities on affected devices and implementing strict print job validation mechanisms. The vulnerability's classification as a type confusion issue makes it particularly susceptible to exploitation through automated tools, increasing the risk to organizations with extensive printing infrastructure. Additionally, the lack of proper input sanitization in the interpreter component means that even legitimate print jobs could potentially trigger the vulnerability if they contain malformed PostScript elements.