CVE-2024-29745: Critical Information Disclosure Vulnerability Due to Uninitialized Data

The CVE-2024-29745 is a critical vulnerability associated with a possible information disclosure due to uninitialized data. In simpler terms, this vulnerability can allow an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data stored on a system with minimal effort and no additional execution privileges. What makes this vulnerability even more alarming is that it does not require any user interaction for exploitation. In this post, we will delve into the details of CVE-2024-29745, including the code snippet, original references, and exploit details. Stay with us as we journey through the ins and outs of this severe security flaw that could potentially affect millions of users worldwide.

Code Snippet

The following code snippet demonstrates a simplified example of how uninitialized data can lead to information disclosure:

#include <stdio.h>
#include <stdlib.h>
#include <string.h>

void vulnerable_function() {
    char buffer[256];
    strncpy(buffer, "Sensitive Data", 256);

    // buffer is not zeroed out (uninitialized)
}

int main() {
    vulnerable_function();

    // Access uninitialized data
    char d[256];
    printf("Uninitialized Data: %s\n", d);

    return ;
}

In the example above, the vulnerable_function function initializes a buffer with sensitive data but never zeroes out the buffer before the function returns. Consequently, this uninitialized data could be accessed by another function or process, possibly leading to the disclosure of sensitive information.

Exploit Details

Taking advantage of the CVE-2024-29745 vulnerability is worryingly simple. Since uninitialized data is accessible by other processes, this vulnerability could be exploited by merely running a piece of malicious software on the victim's machine. This software could access sensitive data stored in the uninitialized data buffer and then transmit this information to the attacker. The result: the attacker gains unauthorized access to sensitive information without the need for any user interaction or additional execution privileges.

The sensitive information is transmitted to the attacker.

4. The attacker is now in possession of sensitive information that they can use for identity theft, fraud, or other malicious purposes.

Original References

The CVE-2024-29745 vulnerability was first detected and reported by various researchers, including the following original references:

1. CVE-2024-29745 Details in the NIST National Vulnerability Database (NVD)
2. Initial Disclosure of CVE-2024-29745 by the Security Researcher
3. Technical Analysis of CVE-2024-29745 by an Independent Security Researcher

Conclusion

Information disclosure vulnerabilities, such as CVE-2024-29745, pose a significant risk to affected users. As a result, it is crucial to ensure that any sensitive data stored on a device is adequately protected from unauthorized access. It is essential to keep all software up-to-date with the latest security patches, and developers should ensure they properly initialize data buffers.

Stay safe, and always be vigilant in protecting your sensitive information from the ever-growing threat of security vulnerabilities.

Timeline

Published on: 04/05/2024 20:15:08 UTC
Last modified on: 04/08/2024 22:53:32 UTC