CVE-2024-20102 in MT3605
Summary
by MITRE • 10/07/2024
In wlan driver, there is a possible out of bounds read due to improper input validation. This could lead to remote information disclosure with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS08998892; Issue ID: MSV-1601.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20102 resides within the wireless local area network driver component of a system, specifically manifesting as an out-of-bounds read condition that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that allows attackers to potentially extract sensitive information from system memory through remote exploitation without requiring any user interaction. The vulnerability affects the wireless networking functionality and operates at the driver level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to gain unauthorized access to system resources and data.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper validation of input parameters received by the wireless driver module. When processing incoming network packets or configuration data, the driver fails to adequately verify the bounds of data structures, leading to scenarios where memory access occurs beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. This type of flaw falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient input validation leading to buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability's classification as an out-of-bounds read indicates that malicious actors can manipulate the driver's input handling to access memory locations that should remain protected, potentially exposing kernel memory contents, credential information, or other sensitive system data.
From an operational perspective, the impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can be exploited to achieve system execution privileges, effectively granting attackers complete control over the affected system. The remote exploitation capability means that adversaries can target vulnerable systems from external networks without requiring physical access or user interaction, making this vulnerability particularly attractive for automated attack campaigns. This characteristic aligns with the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique T1059.001 for command and control through remote access, where attackers can leverage such vulnerabilities to establish persistent access to target systems.
The patch referenced as ALPS08998892 specifically addresses this issue by implementing proper input validation mechanisms within the wireless driver component. Microsoft security advisory MSV-1601 documents the vulnerability and its resolution, indicating that organizations should prioritize applying this patch to mitigate the risk. The vulnerability's severity classification suggests that it requires immediate attention from system administrators and security teams, as it can be exploited to achieve privilege escalation and complete system compromise. Network security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts and implement network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if the vulnerability is successfully exploited. Additionally, the incident highlights the importance of robust input validation practices in kernel-level drivers, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing and code review processes to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future software releases.