A code injection vulnerability has been identified in the Robot Operating System (ROS) 'roslaunch' command-line tool, affecting ROS distributions Noet...
Description
A code injection vulnerability has been identified in the Robot Operating System (ROS) 'roslaunch' command-line tool, affecting ROS distributions Noetic Ninjemys and earlier
Remediation
Apply vendor security updates immediately. Monitor for exploitation attempts and review access logs.
Executive Summary:
A high-severity vulnerability exists in multiple products from Improper due to flawed validation of computer memory module metadata. An attacker with privileged or physical access could exploit this flaw to bypass fundamental system security barriers, leading to arbitrary code execution at the firmware level and a complete compromise of the affected system.
Vulnerability Details
CVE-ID: CVE-2024-36354
Affected Software: Improper Multiple Products
Affected Versions: See vendor advisory for specific affected versions
Vulnerability: The vulnerability stems from improper input validation of Serial Presence Detect (SPD) metadata on Dual In-line Memory Modules (DIMMs). The system's firmware fails to properly sanitize the data it reads from the DIMM's SPD chip during boot. An attacker can exploit this by using one of several methods:
Successful exploitation allows an attacker to bypass the isolation of System Management Mode (SMM), a highly privileged execution mode on x86 platforms. This can result in arbitrary code execution within SMM, granting the attacker persistent and stealthy control over the entire system, invisible to the operating system and most security software.
Business Impact
This vulnerability is rated as High severity with a CVSS score of 7.5. Exploitation could lead to a complete and persistent compromise of affected systems. An attacker with SMM-level access can bypass all operating system security controls, install undetectable malware (firmware rootkits), exfiltrate sensitive data directly from memory, and disable hardware-based security features. The business risks include loss of data confidentiality and integrity, prolonged system downtime, reputational damage, and the potential for the compromised system to be used as a pivot point for further attacks within the network.
Remediation Plan
Immediate Action: Identify all affected assets and apply the security updates provided by the vendor immediately. Prioritize patching for critical systems, internet-facing servers, and systems in physically accessible locations.
Proactive Monitoring: Monitor for signs of exploitation, including unexpected system reboots, crashes during the boot process, or unauthorized modifications to firmware. Review system and security logs for evidence of privilege escalation that could lead to ring0 access, which is a prerequisite for some attack vectors. Employ firmware integrity monitoring tools to detect unauthorized changes.
Compensating Controls: If immediate patching is not feasible, implement the following controls:
Exploitation Status
Public Exploit Available: false
Analyst Notes: As of September 7, 2025, there are no known public exploits or active exploitation campaigns targeting this vulnerability. The attack vectors require a high level of access (physical, ring0, or control over firmware updates), suggesting that any exploitation would likely be part of a targeted and sophisticated attack rather than a widespread campaign.
Analyst Recommendation
Given the high severity (CVSS 7.5) and the potential for a complete, persistent system compromise, we recommend that organizations prioritize applying the vendor-supplied patches to all affected systems. Although this vulnerability is not currently listed on the CISA KEV list, its impact is critical. Organizations should also review and enhance their physical security controls and internal access management policies to mitigate the non-patchable attack vectors associated with this vulnerability.