CVE-2013-0131 in Graphics Drivers
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the NVIDIA GPU driver before 304.88, 310.x before 310.44, and 313.x before 313.30 for the X Window System on UNIX, when NoScanout mode is enabled, allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via a large ARGB cursor.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0131 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within NVIDIA GPU drivers affecting multiple version branches including 304.x prior to 304.88, 310.x prior to 310.44, and 313.x prior to 313.30. This security weakness specifically targets systems utilizing the X Window System on UNIX platforms and becomes exploitable when NoScanout mode is enabled. The flaw manifests through improper input validation mechanisms within the graphics driver's cursor handling functionality, creating a pathway for malicious code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking when processing ARGB cursor data structures. When a cursor with excessive data size is processed, the driver fails to properly validate the buffer boundaries, allowing an attacker to overflow the allocated memory space. This buffer overflow occurs within the graphics subsystem's cursor rendering pipeline, where cursor data is processed and displayed on screen. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the kernel-level graphics driver context, providing attackers with elevated privileges to execute arbitrary code with the same privileges as the graphics driver itself.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables authenticated remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems running affected NVIDIA GPU drivers. The NoScanout mode activation creates a specific attack vector where cursor data processing becomes a potential entry point for exploitation. This scenario is particularly concerning in multi-user environments where X Window System is commonly deployed, as it allows attackers who can authenticate to the system to leverage this weakness. The vulnerability affects systems where NVIDIA graphics hardware is utilized in conjunction with X Window System implementations, which are prevalent in enterprise environments, workstations, and server configurations.
The exploitability of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which categorizes buffer overflow conditions that occur when insufficient checks are performed on the size of input data before copying it into a fixed-length buffer. This weakness directly maps to the ATT&CK framework's technique T1068, which describes the use of privilege escalation techniques through exploitation of software vulnerabilities. The attack requires an authenticated user context, making it less likely to be exploited in public-facing systems but still dangerous in environments where insider threats exist or where authentication mechanisms are compromised.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-0131 primarily involve immediate driver updates to patched versions from NVIDIA, specifically ensuring that systems are updated to versions 304.88, 310.44, or 313.30 respectively. System administrators should also consider disabling NoScanout mode when it is not required for operation, as this reduces the attack surface. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact of exploitation, while monitoring for unusual cursor data processing patterns may help detect attempted exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date graphics drivers and demonstrates how seemingly benign features like cursor handling can become critical security weaknesses when not properly validated.