CVE-2018-12222 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 out of bound memory read via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2020
This vulnerability resides in 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 stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the graphics driver's kernel mode execution context, creating a pathway for privilege escalation through local access. The vulnerability specifically manifests as an out-of-bounds memory read condition that can be exploited by unprivileged users who gain local system access. This type of flaw represents a significant concern in operating system security because kernel mode drivers execute with the highest privilege levels, making any vulnerability in this realm potentially catastrophic for system integrity and security.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the graphics driver's failure to properly validate input parameters received from user mode applications or system calls. When legitimate graphics operations are processed, the driver does not adequately check array bounds, buffer sizes, or memory access patterns before performing memory operations. This allows an attacker to craft malicious input that causes the driver to read memory locations outside of its intended boundaries. The out-of-bounds read can potentially expose sensitive kernel memory contents, including cryptographic keys, credential information, or other confidential data that should remain protected within kernel space. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level where standard user-mode protections are bypassed, and the attacker can leverage this to extract information or potentially manipulate system behavior.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-12222 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it represents a potential stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks within the system. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain access to kernel memory contents that might reveal system internals, application data, or even other security mechanisms that could be leveraged for further exploitation. The vulnerability affects multiple Intel graphics driver versions across different product lines, indicating a widespread issue that requires coordinated patching across various hardware platforms. This particular flaw aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and demonstrates how insufficient input validation can create exploitable conditions in kernel mode drivers. The attack vector requires local access, meaning the attacker must already have a foothold on the system, but the privilege escalation potential makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in persistent threat scenarios.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability maps to several ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation through kernel exploits and credential access via information discovery. The vulnerability's presence in graphics drivers is particularly concerning because these components are frequently updated and used across multiple system configurations. Organizations should prioritize patching these specific driver versions to prevent exploitation, as the vulnerability can be leveraged to extract sensitive information from protected kernel memory regions. The fix typically involves implementing proper input validation and boundary checking mechanisms within the driver's kernel mode components. Security teams should also monitor for potential exploitation attempts in their environments and consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual memory access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date graphics drivers and the need for comprehensive security testing of kernel mode components that handle user input.