CVE-2022-33277

8.4 HIGH

📋 TL;DR

This CVE describes a buffer overflow vulnerability in Qualcomm modem firmware that allows memory corruption when processing WMI commands. Attackers could potentially execute arbitrary code on affected devices. This affects smartphones and other devices using vulnerable Qualcomm modem chipsets.

💻 Affected Systems

Products:
  • Qualcomm modem chipsets (specific models not detailed in public advisory)
Versions: Multiple affected versions prior to February 2023 patches
Operating Systems: Android and other OS using Qualcomm modems
Default Config Vulnerable: ⚠️ Yes
Notes: Affects devices with vulnerable Qualcomm modem firmware; exact device models depend on OEM implementation

📦 What is this software?

⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact

🔴

Worst Case

Remote code execution leading to complete device compromise, data theft, or persistent backdoor installation

🟠

Likely Case

Device crash/reboot, denial of service, or limited code execution in modem context

🟢

If Mitigated

Minimal impact if patched or with proper network segmentation

🌐 Internet-Facing: HIGH - Modem interfaces can be reached via cellular networks
🏢 Internal Only: MEDIUM - Requires proximity or network access to cellular interface

🎯 Exploit Status

Public PoC: ✅ No
Weaponized: UNKNOWN
Unauthenticated Exploit: ⚠️ Yes
Complexity: MEDIUM

Exploitation requires sending specially crafted WMI commands to modem interface

🛠️ Fix & Mitigation

✅ Official Fix

Patch Version: Patches included in February 2023 Qualcomm security bulletin

Vendor Advisory: https://www.qualcomm.com/company/product-security/bulletins/february-2023-bulletin

Restart Required: Yes

Instructions:

1. Check with device manufacturer for firmware updates 2. Apply Qualcomm modem firmware patches 3. Reboot device to activate new firmware

🔧 Temporary Workarounds

Network segmentation

all

Isolate devices from untrusted networks and cellular base stations

🧯 If You Can't Patch

  • Implement strict network access controls to modem interfaces
  • Monitor for unusual modem activity or crashes

🔍 How to Verify

Check if Vulnerable:

Check modem firmware version against Qualcomm's patched versions list

Check Version:

Device-specific commands vary by manufacturer; typically in device settings or diagnostic menus

Verify Fix Applied:

Verify modem firmware version has been updated to post-February 2023 release

📡 Detection & Monitoring

Log Indicators:

  • Modem crash logs
  • Unexpected modem resets
  • WMI command errors

Network Indicators:

  • Unusual cellular network traffic patterns
  • Suspicious modem command sequences

SIEM Query:

Search for modem firmware version strings and crash events in device logs

🔗 References

📤 Share & Export