CVE-2024-50248 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE • 11/09/2024
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
ntfs3: Add bounds checking to mi_enum_attr()
Added bounds checking to make sure that every attr don't stray beyond valid memory region.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-50248 resides within the ntfs3 filesystem driver of the Linux kernel, specifically addressing a potential memory corruption issue in the mi_enum_attr() function. This flaw represents a classic buffer over-read condition that could allow malicious actors to manipulate filesystem data structures and potentially execute arbitrary code. The ntfs3 driver handles the New Technology File System version 3 which is commonly used for interoperability with Microsoft Windows systems, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for enterprise environments that rely on cross-platform file sharing. The vulnerability falls under the category of memory safety issues and aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array index bounds, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations.
The technical implementation of the flaw occurs within the mi_enum_attr() function where the ntfs3 driver processes attribute records in NTFS filesystem structures. Without proper bounds checking, the function could iterate beyond the legitimate memory boundaries of attribute records, potentially reading or writing data beyond allocated memory regions. This condition arises when processing malformed or maliciously crafted NTFS filesystem structures where attribute headers contain incorrect length or offset values. The absence of validation allows the enumeration process to continue beyond valid attribute data, creating opportunities for information disclosure, system instability, or privilege escalation. This vulnerability operates at the kernel level within the filesystem layer, meaning that successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise without requiring user-level privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-50248 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it represents a potential vector for privilege escalation and system compromise within Linux environments that utilize NTFS3 filesystem support. Attackers could craft specially formatted NTFS volumes or files that trigger the vulnerable code path during normal filesystem operations, potentially leading to denial of service conditions or unauthorized access to system resources. The vulnerability affects systems running Linux kernels that include the ntfs3 driver implementation and could be exploited through various attack vectors including network file sharing, removable media insertion, or direct filesystem mounting operations. Given the widespread use of NTFS compatibility in Linux distributions for Windows interoperability, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations maintaining mixed operating system environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-50248 should focus on immediate kernel updates that include the patched ntfs3 driver implementation with proper bounds checking. System administrators should prioritize applying the latest kernel security patches from their distribution vendors, particularly those that address the specific memory validation improvements in mi_enum_attr(). Additionally, organizations should implement monitoring for suspicious filesystem access patterns and consider restricting NTFS mount operations to trusted sources only. The fix implemented addresses the vulnerability by adding explicit bounds checking to ensure that attribute enumeration operations remain within valid memory regions, preventing the traversal of invalid data structures. This remediation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1490 for insecure system configuration, as it prevents the exploitation of memory corruption vulnerabilities that could lead to privilege escalation. Organizations should also conduct vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected kernel versions and implement proper access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious NTFS filesystem content.