CVE-2024-29752 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 04/06/2024
In tmu_set_tr_num_thresholds of tmu.c, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-29752 resides within the tmu_set_tr_num_thresholds function in the tmu.c source file, representing a critical out-of-bounds write condition that presents significant security implications. This flaw manifests as a missing bounds check during threshold parameter processing, creating an opportunity for malicious code execution that can result in local privilege escalation. The vulnerability specifically affects systems utilizing the targeted kernel module where the tmu driver component is implemented, making it particularly concerning for embedded systems, mobile devices, and server environments where such drivers are present.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions where an attacker can write data past the end of allocated buffer space. The flaw occurs during the processing of threshold values within the tmu_set_tr_num_thresholds function, where the code fails to validate input parameters against expected array boundaries. This missing validation allows an attacker to potentially overwrite adjacent memory locations, which could contain critical kernel data structures, function pointers, or other sensitive information. The absence of any required user interaction makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited automatically without requiring physical access or user deception.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it enables local privilege escalation without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. An attacker with local access to a system running the vulnerable kernel module can leverage this flaw to gain elevated privileges, potentially allowing complete system compromise. The exploitation process involves crafting malicious input parameters that exceed the expected bounds, causing the out-of-bounds write to overwrite critical memory regions. This could lead to arbitrary code execution in kernel space, enabling attackers to install rootkits, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-29752 should focus on immediate patch deployment from the vendor, as this vulnerability represents a high-severity threat requiring urgent attention. System administrators should implement kernel hardening measures including stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and kernel module signing to reduce exploitability. Additionally, monitoring for unusual system behavior, unauthorized privilege escalation attempts, and abnormal memory access patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in kernel-level code, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local exploits. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit potential impact if exploitation occurs, while maintaining regular security updates to address similar vulnerabilities in the broader software ecosystem.