CVE-2024-34682 in Samsung
Summary
by MITRE • 11/06/2024
Improper authorization in Settings prior to SMR Nov-2024 Release 1 allows physical attackers to access stored WiFi password in Maintenance Mode.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical authorization flaw in the settings subsystem of mobile devices running firmware prior to the SMR November 2024 release. The issue specifically affects the maintenance mode functionality where unauthorized physical access can lead to exposure of stored WiFi credentials. The flaw stems from inadequate permission controls during the device's maintenance state, where the system fails to properly validate user authentication before granting access to sensitive network configuration data. This represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege and demonstrates poor access control implementation that allows attackers to bypass normal security boundaries.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the realm of improper authorization as defined by CWE-285, which encompasses situations where systems fail to properly enforce access controls. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the device hardware level during maintenance operations, where security controls are often relaxed or bypassed for diagnostic purposes. Attackers with physical access to a device can exploit this weakness to extract stored WiFi passwords without proper authentication, effectively undermining the device's security posture and potentially enabling further attacks on connected networks.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for organizations and individuals who rely on device security for network protection. The ability to extract WiFi credentials through physical access means that attackers can compromise network security even when the device is not actively in use or when the user is unaware of the compromise. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for credential access and represents a critical weakness in the device's defense-in-depth strategy. The exposure of stored WiFi passwords can lead to unauthorized network access, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates to the SMR November 2024 release or later versions that address the authorization flaw. Organizations should implement strict physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to devices, particularly those containing sensitive network credentials. Network administrators should consider implementing additional authentication layers such as WPA3 with strong key management, and regularly audit network access logs for suspicious activity. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current firmware versions and implementing proper device management policies that include regular security assessments and patch management procedures.