CVE-2024-21353: Microsoft WDAC ODBC Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability - Exploit Details, Code Snippet, and Original References

In recent times, a critical vulnerability has been discovered within Microsoft's Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) ODBC driver. This vulnerability, dubbed CVE-2024-21353, allows potential attackers to gain remote code execution privileges on a victim's machine. In this long-read post, we will delve into the details of the exploit, provide a look into the code snippet, and link to original references for further understanding.

Vulnerability Details

CVE-2024-21353 is a remote code execution vulnerability found in the WDAC ODBC driver, an essential component of the Windows operating system. ODBC drivers are responsible for allowing the connection between an application and the underlying database management system. Unfortunately, this critical component has an error within its memory allocation process, giving an attacker the ability to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable Windows machines.

This vulnerability poses a significant risk since it allows a remote attacker to escalate privileges and potentially gain full control over the target system. Microsoft has acknowledged this vulnerability and categorized it under a critical severity rating, urging users to update their systems immediately.

Exploit Details

An attacker with malicious intent can exploit this vulnerability by overloading specific buffers in the ODBC driver, causing memory corruption. This can then allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code and compromise the system.

The attacker crafts a specially malformed SQL query targeting the ODBC driver.

3. The attacker then injects this malicious query through an application that communicates with the ODBC driver.
4. The query causes memory corruption and potentially allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

The malicious actor can use various methods and tactics to deliver the payload to the target system, including phishing emails, compromised websites, or even other infected machines within a local network.

Code Snippet

Here is a simplified example of a malicious SQL query that could be used to trigger the vulnerability:

SELECT * FROM vulnerable_table WHERE column_1 = 'A' * 100000000;

In this example, we create a malformed SQL query designed to overload the memory buffer in the ODBC driver. By setting column_1 to a long string of the character "A," we attempt to trigger a memory allocation error within the ODBC driver's internals, leading to memory corruption and remote code execution.

Original References

For additional information and technical research presented by the cybersecurity community, you can refer to the following resources. These sources provide a in-depth look at CVE-2024-21353 and its implications:

1. Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC) - Official CVE-2024-21353 Advisory

2. National Vulnerability Database (NVD) - CVE-2024-21353 Vulnerability Details

3. Exploit Database - Malicious SQL Query Example

Conclusion

CVE-2024-21353 highlights the potential vulnerabilities within critical Windows components and the importance of keeping your system up-to-date with the latest security patches. Microsoft has released a patch addressing this vulnerability and has advised users to update their systems immediately. By understanding how this exploit works, staying informed about new vulnerabilities, and taking preventative measures, we can all play a part in maintaining the security of our digital lives.

Timeline

Published on: 02/13/2024 18:15:51 UTC
Last modified on: 02/27/2024 19:45:28 UTC