CVE-2024-44095 Overview
CVE-2024-44095 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability in Google Android. The flaw resides in the ppmp_protect_mfcfw_buf function within code/drm_fw.c, part of the Multi-Format Codec (MFC) firmware protection logic. A logic error in this function can lead to memory corruption. An attacker with local access and low privileges can exploit the flaw to escalate privileges without any user interaction. The vulnerability is classified as an out-of-bounds write [CWE-787]. Google addressed the issue in the Pixel security bulletin for September 2024.
Critical Impact
Successful exploitation grants local privilege escalation on affected Android devices without additional execution privileges or user interaction.
Affected Products
- Google Android (Pixel devices)
- Android component: code/drm_fw.c (ppmp_protect_mfcfw_buf)
- See the Android Security Bulletin September 2024 for exact build and version coverage
Discovery Timeline
- 2024-09-13 - CVE-2024-44095 published to NVD
- 2026-06-17 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-44095
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability exists in ppmp_protect_mfcfw_buf, a routine responsible for protecting Multi-Format Codec firmware buffers in the Android DRM firmware handling code. The function contains a logic error that permits memory corruption during buffer protection operations. Because the flaw sits in a kernel-adjacent DRM path, corrupted memory can be leveraged to modify privileged data structures. This produces local escalation of privilege from a low-privileged context to a higher-privileged one. Exploitation does not require user interaction, which increases the utility of the flaw when chained with earlier stage bugs such as a sandboxed application compromise.
Root Cause
The root cause is a logic error in the buffer protection path of ppmp_protect_mfcfw_buf that leads to an out-of-bounds write [CWE-787]. Improper validation of buffer size or address parameters allows the function to corrupt memory outside the intended protected region. This category of defect is common in vendor-specific media firmware handlers that mix kernel memory management with hardware-backed content protection logic.
Attack Vector
The attack vector is local. An attacker must first execute code on the device, typically through a malicious application or a compromised process with normal user-level privileges. The attacker then invokes the vulnerable MFC firmware path to trigger the logic error. No user interaction is required. Successful exploitation yields elevated privileges, enabling further compromise of the device such as accessing protected data, tampering with other applications, or installing persistent components.
No public proof-of-concept code has been released for this issue. Refer to the Android Security Bulletin September 2024 for vendor-authored technical context.
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-44095
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected kernel log entries referencing ppmp_protect_mfcfw_buf, MFC firmware buffers, or DRM firmware faults
- Processes obtaining higher privileges without a corresponding authorized escalation path
- Crashes or panics in media codec services followed by anomalous privileged activity
Detection Strategies
- Monitor Android device patch level and flag devices running a security patch level earlier than 2024-09-01
- Correlate crashes in media or DRM subsystems with subsequent privilege changes in the same session
- Inspect installed applications for those requesting access to media codec or DRM interfaces without a clear functional need
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enroll Android devices in a mobile threat defense or MDM solution that reports OS build and security patch level
- Ingest device telemetry into a SIEM or data lake to identify devices that lag the September 2024 patch baseline
- Track sideloaded application installs on managed devices, since local attackers typically deliver the exploit via an installed app
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-44095
Immediate Actions Required
- Apply the September 2024 Android security patch level (2024-09-01 or later) on all affected Pixel and vendor devices
- Restrict installation of untrusted applications and disable sideloading on managed devices
- Audit installed applications and remove any that are unnecessary or from unverified sources
Patch Information
Google released the fix in the Android Security Bulletin September 2024 for Pixel devices. Devices must be updated to a security patch level of 2024-09-01 or later to remediate CVE-2024-44095. OEMs that ship the affected MFC firmware code should incorporate the upstream patch into their device-specific builds.
Workarounds
- No official workaround exists; patching is the required remediation
- Reduce exposure by enforcing application allowlisting and blocking installation from unknown sources through MDM policy
- Isolate high-risk or unpatched devices from sensitive corporate resources until updates are applied
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
