CVE-2024-49080 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE • 12/12/2024
Windows IP Routing Management Snapin Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-49080 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Windows IP Routing Management Snapin component, which forms part of the Microsoft Windows operating system ecosystem. This vulnerability specifically affects the management console functionality that handles Internet Protocol routing configurations and operations within the Windows environment. The flaw exists in how the system processes certain inputs within the routing management snapin, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems with the privileges of the target user.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and handling within the IP Routing Management Snapin module. When the system processes specific routing configuration parameters or network management commands through the snapin interface, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the incoming data, leading to potential buffer overflow conditions or code injection opportunities. This weakness allows attackers to craft malicious inputs that can manipulate the execution flow of the management snapin, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates at the administrative interface level, meaning that successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious code with the same permissions as the compromised user account.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-49080 extends significantly beyond simple remote code execution capabilities, as it represents a serious threat to network infrastructure security. Organizations relying on Windows-based routing management systems face potential unauthorized access to critical network components, enabling attackers to manipulate routing tables, redirect network traffic, or establish persistent backdoors within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects systems where the IP Routing Management Snapin is installed and accessible, which typically includes servers running Windows Server operating systems and workstations configured with administrative tools for network management. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to perform network reconnaissance, escalate privileges, or conduct lateral movement attacks within compromised networks, potentially leading to widespread system compromise and data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-49080 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from Microsoft as the primary defense mechanism, given that the vulnerability affects core Windows management components. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to systems hosting the IP Routing Management Snapin, ensuring that only authorized administrative personnel can access these management interfaces. Additionally, implementing strict input validation controls and monitoring for unusual routing configuration changes can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a potential pathway for ATT&CK technique T1059, specifically remote code execution through management interfaces. Security teams should also consider disabling unnecessary administrative tools and implementing principle of least privilege access controls to reduce the attack surface and limit potential exploitation scenarios.