CVE-2024-34660 in Notes
Summary
by MITRE • 09/04/2024
Heap-based out-of-bounds write in Samsung Notes prior to version 4.4.21.62 allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-34660 represents a critical heap-based out-of-bounds write flaw discovered in Samsung Notes application versions prior to 4.4.21.62. This vulnerability resides within the memory management subsystem of the application and specifically affects the heap allocation mechanisms used during data processing operations. The flaw manifests when the application handles certain input data structures that trigger improper memory boundary checks during heap operations, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application.
This vulnerability operates through a classic heap corruption attack vector where an attacker can craft malicious input that causes the application to write data beyond the allocated heap buffer boundaries. The technical implementation involves improper bounds checking during memory allocation and data manipulation processes within the Samsung Notes application. The flaw is classified as a heap-based buffer overflow due to the nature of memory corruption occurring in heap memory rather than stack memory, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-787: "Out-of-bounds Write" which directly relates to the improper handling of memory boundaries in heap-based data structures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected device's resources. Local attackers who can influence the application's input processing can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the same privileges as the Samsung Notes application, potentially leading to full system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that Samsung Notes is a widely deployed application on Android devices, making it an attractive target for adversaries seeking persistent access to mobile platforms. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious payloads through the compromised application.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to have local access to the device and the ability to manipulate input data that the Samsung Notes application processes. This typically involves crafting specially formatted notes or data that triggers the flawed heap management code path. The vulnerability demonstrates poor memory safety practices and highlights the importance of proper bounds checking in memory management operations. Security researchers have identified that the flaw occurs during document parsing and data storage operations within the application's core functionality, where insufficient validation of input parameters leads to memory corruption. The lack of proper input sanitization and memory boundary validation creates an exploitable condition that can be leveraged to gain unauthorized code execution privileges. Organizations should implement immediate patch management protocols to address this vulnerability, as the risk of exploitation increases with device usage and the availability of exploit code within threat actor communities. The vulnerability also underscores the necessity of robust mobile application security testing including memory safety analysis and heap-based vulnerability assessment to prevent similar issues in future releases.