Description
A critical vulnerability has been identified in the __portable_aligned_alloc() component of Eclipse ThreadX NetX Duo before version 6.4.0. Specifically, if an attacker can manipulate the parameters passed to the function __portable_aligned_alloc(), it may lead to an integer wrap-around, causing an allocation that is smaller than expected. This vulnerability can lead to subsequent heap buffer overflows.
Affected Product(s)
- Eclipse ThreadX NetX Duo: Versions prior to 6.4.0
Technical Details
The vulnerability resides in the __portable_aligned_alloc() function within the Eclipse ThreadX NetX Duo library, which is a Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) designed specifically for deeply embedded applications. The affected library, NetX Duo, extends the capabilities of the original NetX stack by adding support for IPv6, thereby providing comprehensive networking solutions in various embedded contexts.
When the __portable_aligned_alloc() function is invoked, it takes specific parameters intended to govern memory allocations. The vulnerability arises due to a flaw in the way these parameters are handled: a potential integer wrap-around can occur. In essence, integer wrap-around arises when an arithmetic operation reaches beyond the maximum value an integer can hold, causing it to wrap around to the beginning of its range, often resulting in erroneous and unexpected calculations.
In the context of __portable_aligned_alloc(), if the attacker can control the inputs sufficiently, they could manipulate them to invoke an integer wrap-around. This situation can trick the memory allocation logic into requesting less memory than what is genuinely needed, leading to an under-allocation. Consequently, when the allocated memory is used, it results in access beyond the allocated bounds, thereby causing a heap buffer overflow.
Heap buffer overflow vulnerabilities can be particularly severe due to the nature of heap memory. Unlike stack buffer overflows, which interact with a known and well-structured call stack, heap overflows involve the dynamic memory used for runtime purposes. Accessing outside the bounds of the allocated heap memory can overwrite adjacent memory locations, leading to unauthorized modifications of data, corruption of memory states, and potentially even arbitrary code execution.
Given the severity of this vulnerability (CVSS score 9.8 โ critical), it poses a significant threat. Exploits can range from causing Denial of Service (DoS) to Remote Code Execution (RCE) depending on how the heap is structured and what data resides in the adjacent memory locations. Attackers with knowledge of heap allocation patterns can craft malicious inputs to precisely control the overflows, potentially hijacking execution flow or escalating privileges.
Products and versions:
- Eclipse ThreadX NetX Duo versions from 6.0 x.x series through the 6.3.x series.
While the design and principles behind RTOS use aim for stability and deterministic behaviors, this unintended integer behavior highlights the challenge and intricacy of managing low-level memory operations in highly optimized environments.
Links and Citations:
- [NIST](https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-2452)
- [MITRE](https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2024-2452)
- One notable example of its impact was discussed on [Seclists: Full Disclosure](http://seclists.org/fulldisclosure/2024/May/35), where researchers detailed a successful attempt to exploit this vulnerability, resulting in a controlled memory landscape favorable for further exploitations.
Weakness
The weaknesses associated with this vulnerability are:
- CWE-120: Buffer Copy without Checking Size of Input (‘Classic Buffer Overflow’)
- CWE-190: Integer Overflow or Wraparound
This indicates improper size management when copying data, and the potential for integer arithmetic errors leading to unexpected and dangerous behaviors.
Impact Assessment
If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The nature of the flaw means that it could lead to system crashes or allow persistent unauthorized access, compromising system integrity and confidentiality.
Active Exploitation
We have observed activity from multiple sources indicating active exploitation of this vulnerability. The adversary group responsible for these activities aims at causing buffer overflows, which can lead to further system compromises and potential data breaches. Given the vulnerability’s criticality, it has attracted significant attention.
Ransomware Association
The vulnerability has been linked to ransomware attacks, specifically designed to gain initial access to systems by exploiting the memory allocation weakness. Attackers often use this point of access to deploy ransomware payloads, encrypting user data and demanding ransoms for decryption.
Mitigation and Resolution
We have released a patch that addresses this vulnerability. Please update to version 6.4.0 or later immediately to mitigate potential risks.
Recommendations
- We strongly recommend that all customers apply the latest patch as soon as possible.
- Ensure that your Eclipse ThreadX NetX Duo installations are updated to version 6.4.0 or later.
- Review and consider incorporating the recommended security updates into your RTOS deployment procedures.
- Conduct a thorough security review of your system to ensure no other residual vulnerabilities are present.
- Consider deploying network-based intrusion detection systems (IDS) to monitor for suspicious activities related to the exploitation of this vulnerability.
- Educate and train your technical team about identifying potential exploitation attempts and promptly responding to incidents.
Referencesย
- CVE MITRE Details
- NVD Database
- SecLists Full Disclosure
- Openwall OSS Security
- GitHub Security Advisory