CVE-2024-39779 in Ethernet Connection I219
Summary
by MITRE • 02/13/2025
Stack-based buffer overflow in some drivers for Intel(R) Ethernet Connection I219 Series before version 12.19.1.39 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable denial of service via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-39779 represents a stack-based buffer overflow affecting Intel(R) Ethernet Connection I219 Series network drivers. This flaw exists in driver versions prior to 12.19.1.39 and specifically targets the kernel-level components responsible for network packet processing and driver communication. The vulnerability arises from improper bounds checking within the driver's stack memory allocation routines, creating a condition where malicious input can overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite stack data. The flaw is particularly concerning because it requires only local authenticated access to exploit, making it accessible to users who already have system credentials.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the driver processes network packets or configuration data that contains oversized or malformed input structures. During normal operation, the driver allocates stack space for processing network frames, but due to inadequate validation of input parameters, an attacker can supply data that exceeds the allocated buffer size. This overflow can corrupt adjacent stack variables, return addresses, or other critical memory structures. The attack vector is local and requires an authenticated user context, meaning the exploit cannot be performed remotely but rather through a user who already has access to the system. This authentication requirement reduces the attack surface but does not eliminate the risk, particularly in environments where privilege escalation or credential compromise is possible.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, though that is the primary concern. While the vulnerability description indicates potential denial of service, stack-based buffer overflows in kernel drivers can potentially be leveraged for privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution under certain conditions. The compromised driver component could lead to system instability, network connectivity loss, or in more severe scenarios, complete system compromise if the overflow allows for code execution. Network administrators should be particularly concerned about this vulnerability in environments with multiple users or where system access controls may be insufficient. The vulnerability affects systems running the affected Intel Ethernet I219 Series drivers, which are commonly found in enterprise workstations, servers, and embedded systems, making the potential impact widespread across various computing environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-39779 primarily focus on updating to the patched driver version 12.19.1.39 or later. System administrators should prioritize this update across all affected systems, particularly those with high-value network access or critical infrastructure dependencies. The patch addresses the underlying buffer overflow by implementing proper bounds checking and input validation mechanisms within the driver's stack memory management routines. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can reduce the attack surface by limiting local access to systems with vulnerable drivers. Monitoring for unusual network behavior or system instability following updates can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege to minimize the impact of potential compromise, ensuring that local users have only the minimum necessary access rights to perform their required functions. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving privilege escalation and defense evasion through driver manipulation, making it a significant concern for security operations centers monitoring for potential exploitation attempts.