CVE-2018-12221 in Graphics Driver
Summary
by MITRE
Insufficient input validation in Kernel Mode Driver in Intel(R) Graphics Driver for Windows* before versions 10.18.x.5059 (aka 15.33.x.5059), 10.18.x.5057 (aka 15.36.x.5057), 20.19.x.5063 (aka 15.40.x.5063) 21.20.x.5064 (aka 15.45.x.5064) and 24.20.100.6373 potentially enables an unprivileged user to cause an integer overflow via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2020
This vulnerability resides within the kernel mode driver component of Intel Graphics Driver for Windows systems, representing a critical security flaw that affects multiple driver versions prior to specific patches. The issue manifests as insufficient input validation mechanisms within the graphics driver's kernel mode code, creating a pathway for privilege escalation through local access. The vulnerability specifically targets integer overflow conditions that can occur when processing user-supplied data within kernel space operations. This flaw represents a significant concern because kernel mode drivers operate with the highest privilege level on Windows systems, making any vulnerability in this realm potentially catastrophic for system security. The affected versions include several major releases of Intel's graphics driver suite, with the vulnerability persisting across different version branches including 10.18.x, 20.19.x, 21.20.x, and 24.20.x series, indicating a widespread issue affecting multiple driver generations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of integer values during graphics processing operations within kernel mode. When an unprivileged user provides malicious input to graphics-related functions, the driver fails to properly validate the input parameters before performing arithmetic operations that could result in integer overflow conditions. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-191 Integer Underflow (Wrap or Wraparound) and is classified as a kernel-mode privilege escalation vector. The integer overflow occurs during calculations involving buffer sizes, array indices, or memory allocation parameters that are directly influenced by user input. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate these integer values in such a way that they wrap around to extremely large or negative values, potentially leading to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables local users to gain elevated privileges through kernel-level exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it creates potential for complete system compromise when exploited. An attacker with local access can leverage this integer overflow to execute arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, effectively bypassing all user-mode security controls and protections. This includes bypassing data execution prevention mechanisms, address space layout randomization, and other modern exploit mitigations that typically protect user-mode processes. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only local access and does not necessitate network connectivity or remote attack vectors, making it particularly dangerous in environments where local user accounts are prevalent. Once exploited, the attacker gains the ability to modify system memory, install persistent backdoors, disable security features, and potentially escalate to full system compromise. The attack surface is broad as the graphics driver is frequently accessed by various system components and user applications, increasing the probability of successful exploitation. Organizations running affected Intel graphics drivers face significant risk of unauthorized system access, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within network environments where such systems are deployed.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate driver updates and system patching. Microsoft and Intel have released patches for the affected driver versions, and organizations should prioritize deployment of the latest graphics driver releases that contain fixes for this integer overflow condition. System administrators should also implement monitoring for unusual graphics driver activity and memory allocation patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. Additional defensive measures include restricting local user access where possible, implementing least privilege principles for graphics-related operations, and deploying kernel-mode exploit detection tools. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in kernel mode code and demonstrates why drivers should undergo rigorous security testing before deployment. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict graphics-related applications that might be used to exploit this vulnerability. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing of graphics driver components should be conducted to identify similar issues that may exist in other kernel mode components. The patching process should be prioritized as a critical security update, with particular attention given to systems that handle sensitive data or operate in high-security environments where local privilege escalation could have severe consequences.