CVE-2024-57493 in relibc
Summary
by MITRE • 04/18/2025
An issue in redoxOS relibc before commit 98aa4ea5 allows a local attacker to cause a denial of service via the setsockopt function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-57493 resides within the redoxOS operating system's relibc library, specifically affecting versions prior to commit 98aa4ea5. This issue presents a significant security concern as it enables local attackers to execute a denial of service attack through manipulation of the setsockopt system call. The redoxOS is an experimental operating system written in rust that aims to provide a modern alternative to traditional unix-like systems while maintaining compatibility with existing software. The relibc library serves as the standard C library implementation for this operating system, providing essential networking and system call interfaces that applications depend upon for proper operation.
The technical flaw manifests within the setsockopt function implementation where insufficient input validation and parameter handling creates a potential for system instability. When a local attacker invokes setsockopt with malformed or malicious parameters, the function fails to properly validate the input arguments, leading to unpredictable behavior that can result in system crashes or resource exhaustion. This vulnerability operates at the kernel level where the networking stack interfaces with user-space applications, making it particularly dangerous as it can disrupt critical network services and system functionality. The flaw likely stems from improper bounds checking or memory management within the socket option processing code, allowing attackers to manipulate internal data structures that control socket behavior.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption as it can compromise the entire system stability of redoxOS installations. Local attackers with minimal privileges can exploit this weakness to cause system-wide denial of service, potentially affecting network connectivity, application availability, and overall system reliability. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where redoxOS serves as a critical infrastructure component or where system uptime is essential for operations. The local nature of the attack means that any user with access to the system can potentially trigger the vulnerability, making it a persistent threat that requires immediate attention and remediation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-57493 should focus on updating to the patched version of relibc that includes the commit 98aa4ea5 fix. System administrators should prioritize patching affected installations and monitor for any signs of exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing proper input validation mechanisms and runtime monitoring can help detect anomalous behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses issues related to insufficient input validation, and may also relate to ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for denial of service through resource exhaustion. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and privilege separation to limit the potential impact of local exploitation, ensuring that even if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they cannot easily escalate their privileges or cause broader system damage.