CVE-2024-12656 in USB over Network
Summary
by MITRE • 12/16/2024
A vulnerability, which was classified as problematic, was found in FabulaTech USB over Network 6.0.6.1. This affects the function 0x220448 in the library ftusbbus2.sys of the component IOCT Handler. The manipulation leads to null pointer dereference. The attack needs to be approached locally. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The vendor was contacted early about this disclosure but did not respond in any way.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/19/2024
This vulnerability resides within the FabulaTech USB over Network software version 6.0.6.1, specifically targeting the ftusbbus2.sys driver component. The issue manifests in the IOCT Handler function 0x220448 where a null pointer dereference occurs, representing a critical flaw that can lead to system instability and potential privilege escalation. The vulnerability is classified as problematic due to its potential to cause system crashes or unauthorized access to sensitive system resources. The flaw exists in the kernel-mode driver component which handles USB over network operations, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at the core level of system functionality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the IOCTL handler mechanism. When processing specific control codes, the driver fails to properly validate pointer references before dereferencing them, creating an opportunity for malicious code execution. This null pointer dereference allows attackers to manipulate memory access patterns and potentially execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the device driver layer, where code execution can directly impact system integrity and security boundaries. According to CWE classification, this represents a CWE-476: NULL Pointer Dereference, which is a well-documented weakness that can lead to system crashes and privilege escalation scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant given that exploitation requires only local access to the affected system, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical access is possible. Attackers with local privileges can leverage this flaw to cause denial of service conditions or potentially escalate their privileges to system administrator level. The fact that this vulnerability has been publicly disclosed and is known to be exploitable increases the risk profile considerably. The vendor's lack of response to early disclosure attempts creates a dangerous situation where users remain exposed to potential exploitation without official patches or mitigations. This scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068: Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, where attackers exploit software vulnerabilities to gain elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate isolation of affected systems and implementation of access controls to prevent unauthorized local access. System administrators should consider disabling unnecessary USB over network functionality until a patched version becomes available. Network segmentation and privilege separation can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. The most effective long-term solution requires obtaining the vendor's official patch or upgrading to a supported version of the software. Monitoring for unusual system behavior or kernel-level access patterns may help detect exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing kernel-mode code integrity checks and using security tools that can detect driver-level anomalies can provide additional protection layers. Organizations should also consider alternative USB management solutions that have been properly vetted for security vulnerabilities and maintain active communication channels with vendors regarding security disclosures.