CVE-2024-20073 in MT6890
Summary
by MITRE • 06/03/2024
In wlan service, there is a possible out of bounds write due to improper input validation. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: WCNCR00367704; Issue ID: MSV-1411.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20073 resides within the wireless local area network service component of Microsoft Windows operating systems, specifically affecting the wlan service functionality. This issue represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the wireless networking subsystem. The vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when the wlan service processes certain malformed input data, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The flaw exists in the Windows wireless networking stack and impacts systems running various versions of Microsoft Windows including Windows 10 and Windows 11, making it a widespread concern for enterprise and individual users alike.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions that occur when a program writes data past the end of a buffer or array. The improper input validation within the wlan service creates a scenario where untrusted data can be processed without adequate bounds checking, allowing malicious actors to craft specific inputs that trigger memory corruption. This particular flaw operates at the kernel level within the wireless networking service, meaning that exploitation can lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability does not require user interaction for exploitation, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered automatically through network-based attacks or by manipulating wireless network configurations.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk for privilege escalation attacks where an attacker with limited access could potentially gain SYSTEM level privileges through the wlan service. The attack vector typically involves sending malicious wireless network configuration data or manipulating existing wireless network connections to trigger the out-of-bounds write condition. The exploitation process leverages the fact that the wlan service runs with high privileges and processes wireless network information that may not be properly sanitized. This creates a pathway for attackers to execute code with the highest system privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by its ability to be exploited remotely without requiring physical access or user interaction.
Security mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate application of Microsoft's security patch WCNCR00367704, which specifically addresses the out-of-bounds write condition in the wlan service. Organizations should prioritize patch deployment across all affected systems, particularly those with wireless networking capabilities. Network administrators should implement additional monitoring for suspicious wireless network activity and consider implementing network segmentation to limit potential attack surfaces. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would fall under T1068, which describes exploitation for privilege escalation, and T1566, which covers initial access through spearphishing attachments or links. Additional defensive measures include enabling Windows Defender Application Control to restrict unauthorized code execution, implementing network access control lists, and conducting regular security assessments of wireless infrastructure. System hardening practices should also include disabling unnecessary wireless services and implementing strict input validation for all network-related components to reduce the attack surface and prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.