CVE-2024-45553 is a use-after-free vulnerability categorized under CWE-416 that affects Qualcomm Snapdragon platforms. The vulnerability occurs due to improper synchronization and memory management when process-specific memory maps are added to or removed from a global list. Specifically, if a map is removed from the global list while another thread is concurrently using it for a process-specific task, this can lead to memory corruption. This flaw can be exploited by an attacker with local privileges to cause arbitrary code execution, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability impacts a broad range of Qualcomm products, including many Snapdragon mobile platforms (from Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 to Snapdragon 8 Gen 3), FastConnect wireless subsystems, automotive platforms, wearable platforms, and modem-RF systems. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the combination of local attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges, and the potential for high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No public exploits or patches are currently available, but the extensive list of affected devices and platforms indicates a significant attack surface. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for devices that rely on Snapdragon chipsets for critical functions, including smartphones, automotive infotainment and control systems, and IoT devices.

The impact of CVE-2024-45553 is substantial due to the widespread deployment of affected Qualcomm Snapdragon platforms in consumer electronics, automotive systems, and IoT devices worldwide. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges, enabling attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, modify system behavior, or cause denial of service. For mobile devices, this could mean compromise of user data, persistent malware installation, or device takeover. In automotive or industrial IoT contexts, exploitation could affect safety-critical systems, potentially leading to operational disruptions or safety hazards. The requirement for local privileges limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as attackers could leverage other vulnerabilities or social engineering to gain initial access. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future attacks, especially given the high value of affected devices and platforms. Organizations relying on Qualcomm Snapdragon-based hardware should consider this vulnerability a significant threat to their security posture.

1. Monitor Qualcomm and device vendors for official patches or firmware updates addressing CVE-2024-45553 and apply them promptly. 2. Implement strict access controls and privilege separation on affected devices to minimize the risk of local privilege escalation. 3. Employ runtime protections such as memory corruption mitigations (e.g., Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), Control Flow Integrity (CFI), and stack canaries) where supported by the platform. 4. Limit local access to devices by enforcing strong authentication and physical security controls to reduce the likelihood of exploitation. 5. For enterprise environments, deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments on devices using affected Qualcomm platforms, especially in automotive and IoT deployments. 7. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of timely updates. 8. Where possible, isolate critical systems using network segmentation to contain potential compromises stemming from this vulnerability.