CVE-2018-12224 in Graphics Driver
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer leakage in igdkm64.sys 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 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable information disclosure via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-12224 represents a critical buffer leakage issue within the Intel Graphics Driver for Windows operating system components. This flaw exists specifically within the igdkm64.sys kernel driver module that manages graphics processing unit operations on Intel-based systems. The affected driver versions span multiple release branches including 10.18.x series, 20.19.x series, 21.20.x series, and 24.20.100.6373, indicating a widespread impact across different driver generations and supported hardware platforms. The vulnerability manifests as a memory management flaw that allows unauthorized information disclosure when the graphics driver processes certain buffer operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory buffers within the kernel-level graphics driver component. When authenticated users execute specific graphics operations, the igdkm64.sys module fails to properly validate buffer boundaries during memory allocation and data processing. This buffer leakage occurs because the driver does not adequately enforce memory access controls or validate input parameters before processing graphics-related commands. The flaw essentially allows the kernel module to leak sensitive information from adjacent memory regions, potentially exposing kernel memory contents including potentially sensitive data, system configuration details, or other confidential information that should remain isolated within the driver's memory space.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for authenticated local users who can leverage the buffer leakage to extract confidential information from the system's memory. The attack vector requires local system access, meaning an attacker must already have valid user credentials or be able to execute code with user privileges on the target system. However, the impact extends beyond simple information disclosure as the leaked memory contents could potentially contain cryptographic keys, system configuration parameters, or other sensitive data that could be exploited in subsequent attacks. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where Intel graphics drivers are widely deployed across desktop and laptop systems, creating a substantial attack surface for malicious actors who can gain local access to systems.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with CWE-125, which describes "Out-of-bounds Read" conditions where programs access memory beyond the boundaries of allocated buffers. Additionally, this flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1003.001, "OS Credential Dumping: LSASS Memory," where attackers can extract sensitive information from system memory. The vulnerability also relates to privilege escalation scenarios since the leaked information could potentially be used to bypass security controls or identify system weaknesses that could be exploited for further compromise. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader security posture assessment, particularly in environments where local access controls may be less stringent or where insider threats are a concern.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-12224 require immediate deployment of patched Intel graphics driver versions that address the buffer management issues in the igdkm64.sys module. System administrators should prioritize updating all affected systems to the latest Intel graphics driver releases that include the necessary memory validation fixes. Additionally, organizations should implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual memory access patterns or potential exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and least privilege access controls can help limit the potential impact if an attacker gains local access to a system. Regular security assessments of graphics driver components should be conducted to identify other potential memory management vulnerabilities that could similarly affect system security. The patching process should include thorough testing in controlled environments before widespread deployment to ensure compatibility with existing systems and applications.