CVE-2017-6255 in Windows GPU Display Driver
Summary
by MITRE
NVIDIA Windows GPU Display Driver contains a vulnerability in the kernel mode layer (nvlddmkm.sys) handler for DxgkDdiEscape where an improper input parameter handling may lead to a denial of service or potential escalation of privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6255 resides within the NVIDIA Windows GPU Display Driver component, specifically affecting the kernel mode layer through the nvlddmkm.sys driver module. This flaw manifests in the DxgkDdiEscape handler function which processes escape commands sent from user mode applications to the graphics kernel driver. The issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the kernel mode driver code, creating a potential attack surface where malicious inputs can cause unexpected behavior in the graphics subsystem.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it squarely within the realm of kernel-mode exploitation, classified under CWE-20 as improper input validation. The DxgkDdiEscape function serves as an interface for executing various graphics-related operations and escape sequences, making it a critical component in the graphics rendering pipeline. When improperly handled parameters are passed to this function, the kernel mode driver fails to properly validate or sanitize the input data before processing, leading to potential buffer overflows, memory corruption, or execution flow manipulation. This type of vulnerability represents a classic example of a kernel-level flaw that can be exploited by malicious actors to gain elevated privileges or cause system instability.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-6255 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable privilege escalation attacks. In a typical exploitation scenario, an attacker could craft malicious input parameters that cause the kernel mode driver to execute unintended code paths, potentially allowing for privilege elevation from user mode to kernel mode execution. The vulnerability's potential for privilege escalation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers 'Local Port Configuration' and related privilege escalation methods. System stability is also at risk as the improper input handling can cause the graphics driver to crash or hang, resulting in denial of service conditions that may require system reboot to resolve.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the NVIDIA GPU drivers to the latest versions that contain the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring for unusual graphics driver behavior or system crashes that may indicate exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and privilege separation practices can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of kernel-mode driver security testing and input validation practices, as recommended in the OWASP Top 10 for kernel-level security. Regular security assessments of graphics driver components and implementation of automated patch management systems are essential defensive measures that align with industry best practices for maintaining secure computing environments.