CVE-2024-20066 in MT6298
Summary
by MITRE • 06/03/2024
In modem, there is a possible out of bounds write due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to remote denial of service with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is no needed for exploitation. Patch ID: MOLY01267281; Issue ID: MSV-1477.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20066 represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition within modem firmware components that fundamentally compromises system stability and availability. This flaw manifests when the modem processing logic performs an incorrect bounds check during data handling operations, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted input data can trigger memory corruption beyond allocated buffer boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects modem implementations where input validation mechanisms fail to properly verify data limits before writing operations, creating an exploitable path for remote attackers to disrupt service availability.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, which defines out-of-bounds write conditions as a critical class of memory safety issues. The flaw operates at the firmware level where modem processors handle network traffic and communication protocols, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without requiring any additional privileges or user interaction. The absence of user interaction requirements significantly increases the attack surface and makes this vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors seeking automated exploitation methods. The vulnerability exists within the modem's data processing pipeline where incoming network packets are parsed and validated before being forwarded through the communication stack.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables remote denial of service conditions that can completely disrupt modem functionality and network connectivity for affected devices. The exploitation mechanism does not require any special privileges or authentication, meaning that any remote attacker with network access to the vulnerable modem can trigger the condition. The resulting denial of service can affect critical communication infrastructure, potentially impacting cellular connectivity for mobile devices, IoT systems, and enterprise communication networks that rely on modem functionality. The severity is compounded by the fact that the vulnerability can be triggered automatically without any user involvement, making it particularly dangerous in environments where continuous connectivity is essential.
The patch identified as MOLY01267281 and associated with issue ID MSV-1477 provides the necessary firmware correction to address the incorrect bounds check implementation. Security professionals should prioritize deployment of this patch across all affected modem implementations to prevent exploitation. Mitigation strategies should include network monitoring for unusual traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, implementation of network segmentation to limit access to vulnerable modems, and regular firmware updates as part of comprehensive security maintenance. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation and bounds checking in embedded systems, particularly in critical infrastructure components where failure can result in widespread service disruption.
This vulnerability type falls under ATT&CK technique T1499.004, which covers network denial of service attacks, and represents a significant risk to operational continuity in telecommunications environments. The attack vector operates through standard network protocols without requiring specialized tools or techniques, making it accessible to a wide range of threat actors. Organizations should implement comprehensive vulnerability management programs that include regular firmware assessments and automated patch deployment to address similar issues in embedded modem systems. The vulnerability also highlights the need for security testing of firmware components and the implementation of secure coding practices that prevent buffer overflow conditions in low-level system software.