CVE-2024-25987 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 03/11/2024
In pt_sysctl_command of pt.c, there is a possible out of bounds write due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-25987 resides within the pt_sysctl_command function in the pt.c source file, representing a critical security flaw that could enable local privilege escalation. This issue manifests as a potential out of bounds write condition that arises from an inadequate bounds check implementation. The flaw specifically affects systems where the pt module is utilized, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with elevated system privileges. The vulnerability's classification as local privilege escalation indicates that an attacker must already possess a valid user account on the system, but the ultimate goal is to elevate those privileges to system level execution rights. The absence of user interaction requirements for exploitation makes this vulnerability particularly concerning as it can be triggered automatically without any manual intervention from the target user.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of input parameters within the pt_sysctl_command function. When processing system control commands, the function fails to properly verify array boundaries or buffer limits before writing data, allowing for memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient bounds checking, and more broadly aligns with CWE-787, representing out of bounds write conditions. The improper bounds check creates a scenario where attacker-controlled data can be written beyond the intended memory allocation, potentially overwriting critical system structures or executable code segments. The vulnerability's nature suggests that the function does not adequately validate the size or range of input parameters before performing memory operations, leading to a situation where legitimate system operations can be subverted through carefully crafted inputs.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-25987 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides a pathway for persistent system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges, effectively bypassing standard user access controls and potentially gaining access to sensitive system resources, confidential data, or other connected systems. The local nature of the exploitation requirement means that this vulnerability could be leveraged in various attack scenarios, including privilege escalation from standard user accounts to root or administrator privileges, which would then enable full system control. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where multiple accounts exist, as it provides a consistent method for escalating privileges across different system roles and access levels. The exploitation capability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through kernel exploits, making this vulnerability a significant concern for system administrators and security teams managing enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-25987 should focus on immediate patching of affected systems, as the vulnerability represents a critical risk that requires prompt attention. System administrators should prioritize applying vendor-provided security updates and patches that address the bounds checking flaw in the pt.c module. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and memory protection mechanisms can help mitigate exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and least privilege access controls should be enforced to limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other system components, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in kernel modules. The remediation process should also include comprehensive testing of patched systems to ensure that the fix does not introduce regressions or compatibility issues with existing system functionality.