CVE-2024-20117 in MT6761
Summary
by MITRE • 11/04/2024
In vdec, there is a possible out of bounds read due to improper structure design. This could lead to local information disclosure with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS09008925; Issue ID: MSV-1681.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20117 resides within the vdec component of a system, representing a critical out-of-bounds read condition that stems from inadequate structure design. This flaw manifests in the video decoder module where improper memory management allows for unauthorized data access beyond allocated boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects the vdec subsystem which handles video decoding operations, making it a potential vector for information disclosure attacks that could compromise system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic memory safety issue where the decoder fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits during video frame processing. When the vdec component processes video data, it attempts to read memory locations that extend beyond the intended data structure boundaries, creating opportunities for attackers to access adjacent memory regions containing sensitive information. This design flaw falls under CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient bound checking in array access operations. The improper structure design suggests that the developers did not adequately consider boundary conditions during the implementation phase, leading to a scenario where memory corruption can occur without user interaction.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks as it enables local information disclosure when executed with system-level privileges. The requirement for system execution privileges indicates that exploitation would likely occur through legitimate system processes or administrative access, making the attack vector particularly concerning for environments where privileged accounts are present. Since no user interaction is required for exploitation, the vulnerability can be leveraged automatically by malicious processes or attackers who have already gained system-level access. The patch ID ALPS09008925 and issue ID MSV-1681 indicate this vulnerability was recognized and addressed through a targeted system update, suggesting it represents a known security gap that required immediate remediation.
The implications of this vulnerability extend beyond simple information disclosure, as it could potentially expose sensitive system data, configuration parameters, or even cryptographic keys that might be stored in adjacent memory locations. Attackers could exploit this condition to gather intelligence about the system architecture, identify running processes, or access other confidential information that could facilitate further attacks. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1005, which covers data from local system storage, and T1059, which involves command and scripting interface usage to gather system information. The vulnerability's nature suggests it could be part of a broader attack chain where initial access leads to information gathering through this out-of-bounds read condition.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the vdec component. System administrators should immediately apply the patch referenced by ALPS09008925 to address the underlying structure design issues. Additionally, monitoring for unauthorized system-level access attempts and implementing privilege separation measures can help reduce the attack surface. Organizations should conduct thorough code reviews of similar components to identify and remediate potential boundary condition issues. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management practices and adherence to secure coding standards, particularly in system-level components that handle sensitive data processing operations.