CVE-2024-53197
CVE-2024-53197 is a critical vulnerability in the Linux kernel's ALSA usb-audio subsystem. This out-of-bounds access issue, specifically affecting Extigy and Mbox devices, arises when a malicious device provides a crafted bNumConfigurations value, leading to memory corruption. Although the CVSS score is 7.8, the SOCRadar Vulnerability Risk Score (SVRS) of 75 indicates a significant threat level, nearing criticality. The vulnerability can be triggered by connecting a malicious USB device. Given that active exploits are available and it is tagged "In The Wild" and "CISA KEV", immediate patching is highly recommended to prevent potential system instability or arbitrary code execution. Failing to address this can lead to serious security incidents.
Description
CVE-2024-53197 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's ALSA (Advanced Linux Sound Architecture) subsystem, specifically within the usb-audio driver. A maliciously crafted USB audio device can provide an invalid bNumConfigurations value, leading to out-of-bounds memory access when the kernel attempts to allocate memory for device configurations. The SOCRadar Vulnerability Risk Score (SVRS) for this CVE is 64, indicating a moderate level of risk that warrants attention and patching but is not immediately critical.
Key Insights
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Memory Corruption Risk: The vulnerability enables an attacker to cause memory corruption in the Linux kernel by providing a malformed USB device configuration. This can potentially lead to denial of service (DoS) or, in more sophisticated attacks, kernel-level code execution.
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USB Device Attack Vector: The attack vector is the connection of a malicious USB audio device. Systems that accept arbitrary USB connections, such as publicly accessible computers or servers where users can plug in their own devices, are at higher risk.
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ALSA Subsystem Focus: The vulnerability is specific to the ALSA usb-audio driver. Systems not utilizing the ALSA subsystem or with alternative audio configurations may be less susceptible, though the underlying USB handling logic may present similar vulnerabilities elsewhere.
Mitigation Strategies
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Kernel Patching: Apply the latest security patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers. This is the most direct and effective way to address the vulnerability. Ensure systems are regularly updated with security fixes.
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USB Device Monitoring and Restrictions: Implement policies to restrict the use of untrusted USB devices, especially on critical systems. Consider using USB device whitelisting or monitoring tools to detect and prevent the connection of unauthorized devices.
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ALSA Configuration Review: Examine ALSA configurations to ensure only necessary audio devices and drivers are enabled. Disabling the usb-audio driver entirely if it's not required can mitigate the risk.
Additional Information
If users have additional queries regarding this incident, they can use the 'Ask to Analyst' feature, contact SOCRadar directly, or open a support ticket for more information if necessary.
Indicators of Compromise
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Affected Software
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CWE Details
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