CVE-2024-34633 in Notes
Summary
by MITRE • 08/07/2024
Out-of-bounds read in parsing object header in Samsung Notes prior to version 4.4.21.62 allows local attacker to access unauthorized memory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-34633 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw discovered in Samsung Notes application versions prior to 4.4.21.62. This security weakness resides within the object header parsing functionality of the application, creating a scenario where malicious code can exploit memory access patterns beyond the intended boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects the Samsung Notes mobile application which is widely used for note-taking and document management on android devices. The flaw manifests when the application processes object headers during file parsing operations, where insufficient bounds checking allows unauthorized memory access patterns to occur.
Technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through local attack vectors where an adversary with access to the device can craft maliciously formatted data or manipulate existing note files to trigger the out-of-bounds read condition. The vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient validation of length of input buffers, and more broadly aligns with CWE-125 which covers out-of-bounds read conditions. When the Samsung Notes application encounters malformed object headers during parsing, it fails to properly validate the size parameters and proceeds to access memory locations that fall outside the allocated buffer boundaries. This memory access violation can potentially expose sensitive information stored in adjacent memory regions, including application data, user credentials, or other confidential information that may be cached in memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates potential pathways for further exploitation within the device's security context. Local attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to memory segments that may contain sensitive user data, application state information, or even cryptographic keys that could be used for more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability affects Samsung Notes versions prior to 4.4.21.62, meaning users who have not updated their application remain at risk of exploitation. Attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to extract user notes, personal information, or other sensitive data that might be stored in memory during application processing. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that Samsung Notes is a widely distributed application used for storing personal and potentially sensitive information, making the potential impact of this vulnerability significant for end users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-34633 primarily focus on immediate application updates and system hardening measures. Samsung has addressed this vulnerability in version 4.4.21.62 and later releases, making patch management the primary defensive measure for users. Organizations and individuals should immediately update their Samsung Notes applications to the latest secure versions available through official channels. Additionally, system administrators should implement monitoring for unauthorized application modifications and ensure that automatic update mechanisms are enabled for mobile devices. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in mobile application development, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter usage and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Security teams should also consider implementing mobile device management policies that enforce application version controls and monitor for suspicious memory access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices in mobile applications and the necessity of thorough code review processes to prevent similar out-of-bounds access conditions in future software releases.