CVE-2024-34621 in Samsung Notes
Summary
by MITRE • 08/07/2024
Out-of-bounds read in applying binary with data in Samsung Notes prior to version 4.4.21.62 allows local attackers to potentially read memory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-34621 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw discovered in Samsung Notes application versions prior to 4.4.21.62. This security weakness manifests when the application processes binary data containing specific patterns that trigger improper memory access behavior. The flaw exists within the application's data handling mechanisms, particularly when parsing or applying binary content within the notes functionality. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious binary data that, when processed by the vulnerable Samsung Notes application, causes the software to read memory locations beyond the intended bounds.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the Samsung Notes binary processing pipeline. When the application encounters binary data structures that do not conform to expected formats, the memory access routines fail to properly bounds-check array indices or buffer limits. This allows attackers to manipulate the application's memory access patterns to read data from adjacent memory locations that should remain protected. The flaw specifically impacts the application's ability to safely handle malformed binary content, creating a pathway for unauthorized memory disclosure.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to users of Samsung Notes across various Samsung devices including smartphones and tablets. Local attackers with access to the device can potentially exploit this weakness to extract sensitive information from the application's memory space. The implications extend beyond simple data disclosure as the read operations may inadvertently expose application state information, cryptographic keys, or other sensitive data stored in memory. The vulnerability's local attack requirement means that exploitation does not require network connectivity or remote access, making it particularly concerning for devices with compromised local security.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array index bounds, and represents a classic example of memory safety issues that have been increasingly targeted in mobile application exploitation. Security researchers have documented similar patterns in mobile applications where binary data processing routines lack proper bounds checking mechanisms. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under initial access and privilege escalation techniques, as it provides attackers with potential pathways to extract information that could be used for further exploitation. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of broader mobile security assessments, particularly in environments where Samsung Notes is widely deployed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-34621 primarily focus on immediate application updates to version 4.4.21.62 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the out-of-bounds read behavior. System administrators should prioritize deployment of the security update across all affected Samsung devices within their environment. Additional protective measures include implementing mobile device management policies that enforce automatic security updates and monitoring for suspicious binary data processing activities. Network security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls that restrict execution of potentially malicious binary content within the Samsung Notes environment. Organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the vulnerable Samsung Notes version and establish monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts.