CVE-2024-25391 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the RT-Thread real-time operating system, specifically within the message queue handling code located in libc/posix/ipc/mqueue.c. RT-Thread is a widely used RTOS in embedded systems and IoT devices, valued for its lightweight and modular design. The vulnerability arises due to improper bounds checking when processing message queue operations, allowing an attacker to overwrite the stack memory. This can lead to arbitrary code execution, denial of service, or system instability. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.4, indicating a high severity with the vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, meaning the attack requires local access but no privileges or user interaction, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability severely. No patches have been released at the time of reporting, and no exploits are known in the wild. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 (Stack-based Buffer Overflow), a common and dangerous class of memory corruption bugs. Exploitation would typically require local access to the device running RT-Thread, which is common in embedded environments where physical or network proximity might be possible. The flaw could be leveraged by attackers to gain control over affected devices, potentially disrupting critical operations or exfiltrating sensitive data.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-25391 can be significant, especially those relying on RT-Thread in industrial control systems, IoT devices, or embedded applications. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, disrupt device functionality, or access sensitive information. This poses risks to operational continuity, data confidentiality, and system integrity. Critical infrastructure sectors such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and defense that deploy RT-Thread-based devices could face operational disruptions or espionage. The local attack vector limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as attackers with physical or network access to devices could leverage this vulnerability. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score underscores the urgency for mitigation. Additionally, compromised devices could be used as pivot points for lateral movement within organizational networks, amplifying the threat.

1. Monitor RT-Thread vendor communications closely and apply security patches immediately once available to address CVE-2024-25391. 2. Restrict local access to devices running RT-Thread by enforcing strict physical security controls and network segmentation to limit attacker proximity. 3. Implement runtime protections such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization (ASLR), and memory protection units (MPUs) where supported by the hardware and RTOS configuration. 4. Conduct thorough code audits and static analysis on custom RT-Thread applications to identify and remediate similar buffer overflow risks. 5. Employ intrusion detection systems and anomaly detection to monitor for unusual local activity indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Educate operational technology (OT) and embedded system teams about the risks of local vulnerabilities and the importance of secure device management. 7. Where feasible, isolate critical RT-Thread devices from less secure network segments to reduce attack surface. 8. Consider deploying endpoint protection solutions tailored for embedded systems that can detect exploitation behaviors.