CVE-2024-27381: Uncovering A Critical Vulnerability in Samsung Mobile Processors

The cybersecurity community constantly uncovers new vulnerabilities in software and hardware systems. Recently, a critical vulnerability was discovered in Samsung's Exynos mobile processor line that puts several devices at considerable risk. This vulnerability has been assigned the identifying CVE number, CVE-2024-27381.

The affected processors include Exynos 980, Exynos 850, Exynos 128, Exynos 138, and Exynos 133. In this detailed exposition, we will take a deep dive into the issue, provide code snippets to clarify the problem, and link to original references for further understanding.

Issue Overview

At the core of this issue lies a problem with the function "slsi_send_action_frame_ut()" in the affected processors. The vulnerability exists due to the lack of input validation checks on the "len" parameter, leading to a potential heap over-read scenario.

A heap over-read occurs when a program reads more data than it should, potentially leaking sensitive information to unauthorized individuals. In this case, a successful exploit could lead to unauthorized access, disclosure of sensitive information, or crashes in the affected devices.

Original References

The issue was first reported here, where the author provides a comprehensive breakdown and analysis of the vulnerability, along with potential attack vectors. For further technical details, consult the official CVE description.

Code Snippet Demonstrating the Vulnerability

int slsi_send_action_frame_ut(struct slsi_dev *sdev, const unsigned char *buf, int len, const unsigned char *da, const unsigned char *bssid,
                              u16 host_tag)
{
    struct ieee80211_mgmt *mgmt = (struct ieee80211_mgmt *)buf;

    switch (mgmt->frame_control & cpu_to_le16(IEEE80211_FCTL_STYPE)) {
    // ...other code...
    }

    // The critical code snippet leading to the heap over-read
    slsi_debug_frame(sdev, SLSI_DBG_TX, buf, len);

    // ...remainder of the function...
}

As can be seen from the above code snippet, the vulnerable function "slsi_send_action_frame_ut()" accepts a "len" parameter as input, which is then utilized in the "slsi_debug_frame()" function. However, there is no validation check of the "len" parameter's value, which leads to the heap over-read vulnerability.

Exploit Details

The absence of input validation checks allows malicious actors to send crafted packets with a large "len" value, causing the vulnerable function to read beyond the allocated buffer's end. This can potentially lead to information disclosure, unauthorized access, or device crashes.

Although there have not been any reported cases of this vulnerability being actively exploited in the wild at the time of writing, security researchers have warned that this exploit could be used by hackers as part of a larger attack campaign.

Remediation Steps

Samsung has acknowledged the vulnerability in its Exynos mobile processor line and is actively working on a security patch to resolve the issue. Users are recommended to keep their devices up to date with the latest software updates and security patches.

In summary, CVE-2024-27381 is a critical vulnerability affecting multiple Samsung mobile processors. The lack of input validation checks on the "len" parameter in the "slsi_send_action_frame_ut()" function can lead to heap over-read scenarios. Security researchers urge Samsung device users to remain vigilant and keep their devices updated with the latest patches for optimum security.

Timeline

Published on: 06/05/2024 19:15:14 UTC
Last modified on: 06/27/2024 15:54:29 UTC