CVE-2024-20009 in MT6580
Summary
by MITRE • 02/05/2024
In alac decoder, there is a possible out of bounds write due to an incorrect error handling. This could lead to remote escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS08441150; Issue ID: ALPS08441150.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20009 resides within the alac decoder component, a critical element responsible for decoding audio data in Apple's ecosystem. This flaw represents a significant security concern as it manifests as a potential out of bounds write condition that arises from inadequate error handling mechanisms. The alac decoder is commonly employed in various Apple devices including iPhones, iPads, and Mac systems, making this vulnerability particularly concerning from a widespread impact perspective. The vulnerability stems from the decoder's failure to properly validate input data boundaries during the decoding process, creating opportunities for malicious actors to exploit memory corruption patterns.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a specific error handling flaw that allows an attacker to manipulate the decoder's memory operations beyond intended boundaries. When the alac decoder encounters malformed input data, the improper error handling causes the system to write data beyond allocated memory segments, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-787 weakness category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability's exploitation requires user interaction, typically through the delivery of malicious audio content that triggers the vulnerable decoder when processed by the affected system.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents a severe risk for remote privilege escalation attacks as it can be leveraged without requiring additional execution privileges beyond normal user access. The attack vector typically involves tricking a user into opening or playing maliciously crafted audio files that contain specially crafted data designed to exploit the decoder's memory handling flaw. The attacker can potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially gaining full system control. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter execution, as the exploitation can occur through legitimate system processes that handle audio decoding. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially allow complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-20009 focus primarily on applying the vendor-provided patch identified as ALPS08441150, which addresses the specific error handling flaw in the alac decoder implementation. System administrators should prioritize immediate deployment of this patch across all affected Apple devices, particularly those running iOS, iPadOS, or macOS operating systems. Additional protective measures include implementing strict content filtering for audio files, disabling automatic playback of unknown audio content, and employing network-level security controls that can detect and block potentially malicious audio data. Organizations should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring systems that can detect anomalous memory access patterns consistent with out-of-bounds write exploitation attempts. The patch addresses the root cause by implementing proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the alac decoder, ensuring that all memory operations remain within allocated boundaries regardless of input data quality.