CVE-2024-20017: MediaTek SDK Remote Code Execution Flaw

CVE-2024-20017 Overview

In wlan service, there is a possible out of bounds write due to improper input validation. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.

Critical Impact

This vulnerability could lead to remote code execution with high severity.

Affected Products

• Mediatek Software Development Kit
• Mediatek MT7622
• Mediatek MT7915

Discovery Timeline

• 2024-03-04 - CVE CVE-2024-20017 published to NVD
• 2025-05-05 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2024-20017

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability in the WLAN service arises from improper input validation. An attacker can inject malicious input that results in an out of bounds write, leading to potential remote code execution.

Root Cause

The core issue stems from improper input validation, allowing for out of bounds memory access.

Attack Vector

The exploitation is possible over the network, making it remotely accessible without user interaction.

// Example exploitation code (sanitized)
#include <stdio.h>
#include <string.h>

void vulnerableFunction(char *input) {
    char buffer[256];
    // Improper input validation leading to out-of-bounds
    strcpy(buffer, input);
}

int main(int argc, char *argv[]) {
    if (argc > 1) {
        vulnerableFunction(argv[1]);
    }
    return 0;
}

Detection Methods for CVE-2024-20017

Indicators of Compromise

• Unexpected network traffic
• Unusual process creation
• Memory anomalies

Detection Strategies

Use enhanced logging to detect abnormal memory access patterns and integrate anomaly detection systems for network traffic analysis.

Monitoring Recommendations

Continuously monitor network traffic patterns and memory usage, and deploy host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS).

How to Mitigate CVE-2024-20017

Immediate Actions Required

• Disable vulnerable WLAN services until patched
• Implement network segmentation to limit exposure
• Deploy web application firewalls with rule sets to block exploit vectors

Patch Information

Refer to the Mediatek security bulletin (Patch ID: WCNCR00350938) for patch details and implement updates as necessary.

Workarounds

Disable the affected service ports and apply access control lists (ACLs) to network devices to prevent exploitation.

# Configuration example
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 12345 -j DROP
iptables -A INPUT -p udp --dport 12345 -j DROP