CVE-2021-22636 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed article on the Texas Instruments TI-RTOS Integer Overflow or Wraparound vulnerability, CVE-2021-22636.

Understanding CVE-2021-22636

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of CVE-2021-22636.

What is CVE-2021-22636?

Texas Instruments TI-RTOS, when configured to use HeapMem heap(default), can trigger an integer overflow vulnerability in 'HeapMem_allocUnprotected', potentially leading to code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2021-22636

The vulnerability in Texas Instruments TI-RTOS poses a high severity risk, allowing for code execution with high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-22636

Explore the specific technical aspects of CVE-2021-22636.

Vulnerability Description

When malloc returns a valid pointer to a small buffer due to HeapMem heap configuration, extremely large values can trigger an integer overflow, leading to potential code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

CC32XX: Versions less than 4.40.00.07
SimpleLink MSP432E4XX: All versions
SimpleLink-CC13XX: Versions less than 4.40.00
SimpleLink-CC26XX: Versions less than 4.40.00
SimpleLink-CC32XX: Versions less than 4.10.03

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by crafting inputs that result in excessively large values for malloc operations, triggering the integer overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to address and prevent the CVE-2021-22636 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Texas Instruments CC32XX to v4.40.00.07
Update SimpleLink CC13X0 to v4.10.03
Update SimpleLink CC13X2-CC26X2 to v4.40.00
Update SimpleLink CC2640R2 to v4.40.00
No update currently planned for SimpleLink MSP432E4

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices, regularly update software components, and monitor for potential security issues.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely application of security patches and updates from Texas Instruments to mitigate the risk of exploitation.