CVE-2024-20040 in MT2713
Summary
by MITRE • 04/01/2024
In wlan firmware, there is a possible out of bounds write due to improper input validation. This could lead to remote escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS08360153 (for MT6XXX chipsets) / WCNCR00363530 (for MT79XX chipsets); Issue ID: MSV-979.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20040 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the wireless local area network firmware components of certain MediaTek chipsets. This issue affects the wlan firmware subsystem and manifests as improper input validation that allows malicious actors to manipulate memory structures during normal wireless communication operations. The vulnerability specifically impacts MT6XXX and MT79XX chipset families, with patch identifiers ALPS08360153 and WCNCR00363530 respectively, indicating the severity and targeted nature of the flaw within MediaTek's firmware ecosystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a buffer overflow condition where the firmware fails to properly validate input data received from wireless network packets or configuration parameters. When malformed data is processed by the wlan firmware, it can overwrite adjacent memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries, potentially corrupting critical system structures or executable code segments. This type of flaw falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the specific implementation within the wireless firmware context creates unique exploitation vectors. The vulnerability's classification as remote privilege escalation means that attackers can leverage this flaw without requiring physical access or additional execution privileges, as the wireless interface typically operates with elevated permissions necessary for network operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-20040 extends beyond simple system instability or denial of service scenarios, as it enables full system compromise through remote code execution. An attacker positioned within wireless network range can craft malicious packets that trigger the out-of-bounds write condition, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. This capability directly maps to the MITRE ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation tactic. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered automatically when devices connect to compromised wireless networks or when the firmware processes legitimate but malformed wireless traffic. This characteristic significantly broadens the attack surface and reduces the barriers to successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate firmware patch deployment across all affected MediaTek chipsets, with particular attention to enterprise wireless infrastructure and mobile devices. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit wireless access to critical systems and deploy intrusion detection systems capable of identifying anomalous wireless traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The patching process must be carefully coordinated to avoid disrupting wireless connectivity, as the firmware updates typically require complete system reinitialization. Additionally, security teams should conduct comprehensive network assessments to identify all devices utilizing affected MT6XXX and MT79XX chipsets, implementing monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts through abnormal memory access patterns or unexpected system behavior. Regular firmware update policies should be established to ensure timely remediation of similar vulnerabilities in the wireless subsystem.