CVE-2024-32017 in RIOT-OS
Summary
by MITRE • 05/01/2024
RIOT is a real-time multi-threading operating system that supports a range of devices that are typically 8-bit, 16-bit and 32-bit microcontrollers. The size check in the `gcoap_dns_server_proxy_get()` function contains a small typo that may lead to a buffer overflow in the subsequent `strcpy()`. In detail, the length of the `_uri` string is checked instead of the length of the `_proxy` string. The `_gcoap_forward_proxy_copy_options()` function does not implement an explicit size check before copying data to the `cep->req_etag` buffer that is `COAP_ETAG_LENGTH_MAX` bytes long. If an attacker can craft input so that `optlen` becomes larger than `COAP_ETAG_LENGTH_MAX`, they can cause a buffer overflow. If the input above is attacker-controlled and crosses a security boundary, the impact of the buffer overflow vulnerabilities could range from denial of service to arbitrary code execution. This issue has yet to be patched. Users are advised to add manual bounds checking.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-32017 affects RIOT OS, a real-time multi-threading operating system designed for embedded devices ranging from 8-bit to 32-bit microcontrollers. This operating system serves critical infrastructure applications where security and reliability are paramount. The flaw resides within the gcoap_dns_server_proxy_get() function where a typographical error in size validation creates a buffer overflow condition. Specifically, the code incorrectly validates the length of the _uri string rather than the _proxy string, creating a scenario where malicious input can bypass intended bounds checking mechanisms. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of improper input validation that can lead to memory corruption.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests through the gcoap_forward_proxy_copy_options() function which lacks explicit size validation before copying data into the cep->req_etag buffer. This buffer has a fixed maximum size of COAP_ETAG_LENGTH_MAX bytes, yet the function does not verify that the incoming optlen parameter remains within acceptable bounds. When an attacker crafts input that causes optlen to exceed COAP_ETAG_LENGTH_MAX, the subsequent memory copying operation results in buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability represents a direct violation of secure coding principles and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and scripting interpreter execution, as exploitation could potentially enable arbitrary code execution. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that RIOT OS is commonly deployed in IoT devices, medical equipment, and industrial control systems where such vulnerabilities can have severe operational impacts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to potentially enable complete system compromise. When attacker-controlled input crosses security boundaries, the buffer overflow can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or cause persistent system instability. The nature of embedded systems running RIOT OS means that such vulnerabilities can affect critical infrastructure components including smart meters, environmental sensors, and security devices. The lack of a patch and the advisory for manual bounds checking indicates that this vulnerability remains actively exploitable in deployed systems. Organizations using RIOT OS must consider this vulnerability as a high-priority concern given its potential to enable remote code execution in embedded environments. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe in environments where network connectivity is present and where the operating system is used in security-sensitive applications, making it a critical concern for industrial control systems and IoT deployments.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate code-level fixes including implementing proper bounds checking in both the gcoap_dns_server_proxy_get() and gcoap_forward_proxy_copy_options() functions. Developers must ensure that all buffer operations validate input lengths against destination buffer capacities before copying data. The implementation should follow secure coding guidelines such as those specified in the CERT Secure Coding Standards, particularly the STR02-C rule regarding buffer overflow prevention. Additionally, defensive programming techniques including static analysis tools and runtime bounds checking should be implemented to detect similar issues in other parts of the codebase. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of all RIOT OS deployments and implement network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of code review processes and automated testing procedures that can identify such typographical errors before they can be exploited in production environments.