CVE-2019-0158 in Graphics Performance Analyzer
Summary
by MITRE
Insufficient path checking in the installation package for Intel(R) Graphics Performance Analyzer for Linux version 18.4 and before may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-0158 resides within the Intel(R) Graphics Performance Analyzer for Linux software version 18.4 and earlier releases, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of the system's privilege management mechanisms. This issue manifests through inadequate path validation during the installation process, creating a potential attack vector that could be exploited by authenticated users with local system access. The flaw specifically targets the installation package's handling of file paths, which fails to properly validate or sanitize the locations where installation components are placed, thereby creating opportunities for malicious manipulation of the system's privilege structure.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and path sanitization within the installation routine of the graphics performance analyzer tool. When the installation package executes, it does not adequately verify the legitimacy of file paths or directories where components are being installed, allowing a malicious actor with local access to manipulate the installation process. This weakness enables attackers to potentially place malicious code or modify existing system files in privileged locations, effectively bypassing normal access controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and CWE-22, concerning improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The flaw essentially creates a path traversal condition where the installation process does not properly validate the absolute or relative paths used during component deployment.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to Linux systems running affected versions of Intel's graphics performance analyzer, particularly in enterprise environments where local system access might be more readily available to untrusted users. The privilege escalation potential means that an authenticated attacker could gain elevated system privileges, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code with root-level permissions. This creates a severe impact on system confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as the attacker could modify critical system files, install backdoors, or disable security mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only local access and authentication, making it accessible to users who might not otherwise have elevated privileges. The attack surface extends to any system where the vulnerable software is installed, including development workstations, servers, and embedded systems that utilize Intel graphics performance monitoring tools.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-0158 should prioritize immediate software updates to the latest version of Intel Graphics Performance Analyzer, which addresses the path validation issues through enhanced input sanitization and proper path verification mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict access controls and limit local system access to only trusted users, as the vulnerability requires local authentication to exploit. System administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious installation activities or file modifications in system directories can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process should also include reviewing system logs for evidence of unauthorized installation attempts and implementing privileged access management solutions to reduce the attack surface. Security teams should consider the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation tactics, particularly techniques involving installation packages and path manipulation, to better understand potential exploitation patterns and implement appropriate defensive measures. Organizations should also review their software procurement and deployment processes to ensure that only verified and trusted software installations occur within their environments.