CVE-2017-6257 in GPU Display Driver
Summary
by MITRE
NVIDIA GPU Display Driver contains a vulnerability in the kernel mode layer handler where a NULL pointer dereference may lead to denial of service or potential escalation of privileges
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6257 resides within the NVIDIA GPU Display Driver's kernel mode layer handler, representing a critical security flaw that affects systems utilizing NVIDIA graphics processing units. This issue manifests as a NULL pointer dereference condition that occurs when the driver processes certain kernel mode requests, creating an opportunity for adversaries to exploit the weakness through carefully crafted inputs. The vulnerability impacts multiple versions of NVIDIA's GPU display drivers across various operating systems including Windows and Linux platforms, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments that rely heavily on GPU acceleration for computing tasks.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the kernel mode component of the NVIDIA driver, specifically in how it handles certain display-related requests that are processed in kernel space. When legitimate user-space applications or malicious code submit requests that trigger the vulnerable code path, the kernel mode handler fails to properly validate pointer references before dereferencing them. This NULL pointer dereference condition occurs in the kernel mode layer where privilege levels are elevated, creating a potential escalation of privileges scenario. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-476 which describes NULL Pointer Dereference, while the ATT&CK framework would categorize this under privilege escalation techniques through kernel exploits.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-6257 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as the vulnerability can potentially enable attackers to gain elevated privileges on affected systems. In a denial of service scenario, the system may crash or become unresponsive when the NULL pointer dereference occurs, requiring manual intervention to restore normal operations. However, the more severe implications arise when an attacker successfully exploits the privilege escalation aspect, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges. This capability could enable attackers to install persistent backdoors, modify system files, or access sensitive data that would otherwise be protected by normal operating system security mechanisms. The vulnerability affects systems where NVIDIA GPU drivers are installed and actively processing display-related requests, making it particularly dangerous in environments where GPU acceleration is widely used.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-6257 should focus on immediate patching of affected NVIDIA GPU drivers to the latest versions that contain the necessary fixes for the NULL pointer dereference issue. System administrators should prioritize updating all affected systems, particularly those running in high-security environments or handling sensitive data. Additional protective measures include implementing strict access controls for GPU-related applications, monitoring system logs for unusual behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and maintaining up-to-date intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation signatures. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary GPU acceleration features when they are not required for specific applications, reducing the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper kernel mode input validation and the critical need for comprehensive security testing of device drivers, particularly those operating in privileged execution contexts where the potential for system compromise is significantly elevated.