CVE-2024-7448 is an OS command injection vulnerability classified under CWE-78 affecting Magnet Forensics AXIOM, a digital forensics tool used for acquiring and analyzing data from mobile devices. The vulnerability exists in the Android device image acquisition functionality of AXIOM version 8.0.0.39753. Specifically, the software fails to properly sanitize or validate a user-supplied string before incorporating it into a system call, which allows an attacker to inject arbitrary OS commands. This flaw can be exploited by a network-adjacent attacker who can trick the forensic analyst into acquiring data from a maliciously crafted Android device. Upon successful exploitation, the attacker can execute arbitrary code with the same privileges as the AXIOM user, potentially compromising the system’s confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability requires user interaction, as the analyst must initiate the acquisition process with the malicious device. The CVSS v3.0 score is 8.0, reflecting high impact with low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction needed. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is critical due to the sensitive nature of forensic environments and the potential for remote code execution. The issue was reported by ZDI (ZDI-CAN-23964) and published on August 21, 2024.

The impact of CVE-2024-7448 is significant for organizations relying on Magnet Forensics AXIOM for mobile device forensic analysis, especially those handling sensitive or legally critical data. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on forensic workstations, potentially leading to data theft, manipulation of forensic evidence, or disruption of forensic processes. This compromises the integrity and reliability of forensic investigations, which can have legal and operational consequences. Additionally, attackers could use the foothold to pivot within the network, escalating privileges or deploying malware. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments where analysts frequently connect unknown or untrusted devices. Given the high CVSS score and the critical role of forensic tools, the threat is considerable for law enforcement, cybersecurity firms, and enterprises with digital forensics teams.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should immediately update Magnet Forensics AXIOM to a patched version once available. Until a patch is released, forensic analysts should avoid acquiring data from untrusted or unknown Android devices. Implement strict device acquisition policies that include verifying device integrity and source before connection. Employ network segmentation to isolate forensic workstations from broader enterprise networks to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. Use application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor and block suspicious system calls or command execution originating from AXIOM processes. Additionally, enforce the principle of least privilege by running AXIOM under accounts with minimal necessary permissions. Conduct regular security training for forensic analysts to recognize and handle potentially malicious devices safely. Finally, monitor vendor advisories for patches and updates addressing this vulnerability.