Understanding and Mitigating CVE-2024-33045: Return of Stack Variable Address in Buses
Introduction to CVE-2024-33045
The Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database has recorded an alarming memory corruption vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-33045. This high-severity issue affects a wide range of products by Qualcomm, Inc., specifically targeting various versions of the Snapdragon platform.
The vulnerability arises from the return of a stack variable address when the BTFM client sends new messages over Slimbus to ADSP. This weakness falls under the category of CWE-562: Return of Stack Variable Address.
Technical Details
According to the CVE's metrics, the risk factors are significant:
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Local
- Availability Impact: High
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Privileges Required: None
- Scope: Unchanged
- User Interaction: None
These metrics culminate in a Base Score of 8.4, categorizing this vulnerability as High Severity. The CVSS vector string for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H.
Impacted Platforms
This vulnerability has far-reaching implications, affecting various Snapdragon platforms, including but not limited to:
- Snapdragon Auto
- Snapdragon Compute
- Snapdragon Connectivity
- Snapdragon Mobile
- Qualcomm Video Collaboration Platforms
Specific versions such as AR8035, CSRA6620, CSRA6640, FastConnect 6200, FSM10055, and many others are listed as affected in the official documentation. For a complete list, please refer to the Qualcomm September 2024 Security Bulletin available here.
Mitigation Strategies
Mitigating CVE-2024-33045 requires immediate and proactive measures:
- Patch Management: Ensure all affected Qualcomm firmware and software are updated with the latest security patches provided by Qualcomm.
- Access Control: Given the local attack vector, limit physical and remote access to devices running vulnerable Snapdragon versions.
- Monitoring and Detection: Implement rigorous monitoring procedures to detect abnormal access patterns and potential exploitation attempts.
- Firmware Validation: Employ firmwares with secure boot mechanisms to prevent unauthorized firmware modifications.
- Incident Response: Prepare a robust incident response plan to quickly address any potential exploitation of this vulnerability.
By following these steps, organizations can enhance their defenses against exploits targeting CVE-2024-33045.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-33045 represents a critical memory corruption vulnerability impacting a wide range of Qualcomm Snapdragon platforms. Organizations must act promptly to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability. By staying vigilant and following best practices in patch management and access control, the impact of this high-severity flaw can be significantly reduced.
