CVE-2024-27230 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 03/11/2024
In ProtocolPsKeepAliveStatusAdapter::getCode() of protocolpsadapter.cpp, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure with baseband firmware compromise required. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-27230 resides within the ProtocolPsKeepAliveStatusAdapter::getCode() function in the protocolpsadapter.cpp source file, representing a critical out-of-bounds read flaw that fundamentally compromises system integrity. This issue manifests as a missing bounds check during code execution, creating an exploitable condition where memory access occurs beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects the protocolpsadapter component, which serves as a critical interface for managing keep-alive status communications within mobile network protocols, making it particularly dangerous in cellular infrastructure environments.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which categorizes improper bounds checking as a fundamental weakness in software design that allows attackers to access memory locations beyond intended buffer limits. The flaw operates at the kernel level within baseband firmware components, requiring compromise of the baseband firmware as a prerequisite for exploitation, yet the attack surface remains significant due to the privileged nature of the affected code. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation may involve manipulating execution flows through buffer over-read conditions to extract sensitive information or achieve code execution within the baseband environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates potential pathways for more severe compromise scenarios. Local information disclosure represents a significant risk in mobile network environments where baseband processors handle sensitive communication data, cryptographic keys, and system configuration parameters. The requirement for baseband firmware compromise indicates that attackers must first gain access to the low-level firmware execution environment, which typically involves sophisticated attack chains including hardware-level exploits or firmware update vulnerabilities. However, the absence of user interaction requirements for exploitation makes this vulnerability particularly concerning as it can be triggered automatically during normal system operations, potentially allowing for stealthy reconnaissance and information gathering activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-27230 must address both the immediate code-level fix and broader system security considerations. The primary remediation involves implementing proper bounds checking within the ProtocolPsKeepAliveStatusAdapter::getCode() function to validate all memory access operations against allocated buffer boundaries, effectively preventing out-of-bounds reads. Security professionals should also implement firmware integrity monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized modifications to baseband components and establish secure update protocols that prevent exploitation during firmware installation processes. Additionally, network monitoring solutions should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, while system administrators should maintain comprehensive audit trails of baseband firmware operations and access controls to prevent unauthorized modifications. The vulnerability's classification as a local information disclosure threat underscores the need for robust privilege separation and access control mechanisms within mobile network infrastructure components.