CVE-2024-31327 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 07/10/2024
In multiple functions of MessageQueueBase.h, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a race condition. 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 • 12/17/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-31327 resides within the MessageQueueBase.h header file across multiple functions, presenting a critical security flaw that enables local privilege escalation. This issue stems from a race condition that occurs during concurrent access to shared memory resources, creating an exploitable scenario where malicious code can manipulate memory boundaries beyond their allocated limits. The flaw specifically manifests in the improper handling of synchronization mechanisms within the message queue implementation, allowing for unauthorized memory modifications that can be leveraged to gain elevated system privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic race condition pattern where multiple threads or processes access shared resources without proper mutual exclusion controls. When functions within MessageQueueBase.h process incoming messages or manage queue operations, they fail to adequately synchronize access to critical data structures, resulting in scenarios where memory writes can occur beyond the bounds of allocated buffers. This out-of-bounds write condition creates opportunities for arbitrary code execution and privilege escalation, as attackers can manipulate memory locations to redirect execution flow or modify system-critical data structures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides a pathway for local attackers to achieve privilege escalation without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction. This characteristic makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where users may have limited privileges but can still execute code within the system. The race condition typically occurs during message processing operations where timing-sensitive operations can be exploited to overwrite memory locations that control program execution flow or system permissions. The lack of user interaction requirements means that exploitation can occur automatically when the vulnerable system processes messages through the affected functions.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-362, which specifically addresses race conditions that can lead to privilege escalation and other security issues. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation," as the vulnerability enables local users to escalate their privileges through memory corruption attacks. The absence of user interaction requirements places this vulnerability in the category of persistent threats that can be exploited automatically without requiring social engineering or additional attack vectors. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as a high-priority issue requiring immediate attention, particularly in environments where multiple processes interact with shared message queues and where local privilege escalation could provide access to sensitive system resources.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper synchronization mechanisms such as mutexes, semaphores, or other thread-safe constructs to prevent concurrent access to shared resources. The codebase requires comprehensive review and patching of all functions within MessageQueueBase.h that handle message processing operations, ensuring that proper locking mechanisms are implemented around critical sections. Additionally, bounds checking should be enforced throughout the message queue implementation to prevent out-of-bounds memory writes, and the system should be audited for similar race condition vulnerabilities in other shared memory components. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be implemented to identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors.