CVE-2019-5183 in ATIDXX64.DLL
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable type confusion vulnerability exists in AMD ATIDXX64.DLL driver, versions 26.20.13031.10003, 26.20.13031.15006 and 26.20.13031.18002. A specially crafted pixel shader can cause a type confusion issue, leading to potential code execution. An attacker can provide a specially crafted shader file to trigger this vulnerability. This vulnerability can be triggered from VMware guest, affecting VMware host.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-5183 represents a critical type confusion flaw within the AMD ATIDXX64.DLL graphics driver component, specifically affecting versions 26.20.13031.10003, 26.20.13031.15006, and 26.20.13031.18002. This issue falls under the CWE-843 category of type confusion, where the driver fails to properly validate data types during shader processing operations, creating a fundamental security weakness in the graphics subsystem. The vulnerability manifests when processing specially crafted pixel shaders that manipulate memory layout expectations, causing the driver to interpret data as different types than originally intended. This type confusion occurs at the kernel level within the graphics driver's shader compilation and execution pipeline, making it particularly dangerous as it operates with elevated privileges and can bypass standard operating system security mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a malicious pixel shader file that specifically targets memory layout assumptions within the ATIDXX64.DLL driver. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and memory management during shader processing, where the driver does not properly verify the integrity of shader data structures before executing operations. When a vulnerable driver processes such malicious shaders, it can cause memory corruption that leads to arbitrary code execution in the context of the graphics driver, which typically runs with system-level privileges. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be triggered from within a VMware virtual machine environment, allowing attackers to potentially escape the guest operating system boundaries and execute code on the host system, representing a significant escalation of privileges. This cross-container vulnerability demonstrates how graphics driver flaws can create attack surfaces that extend beyond traditional operating system boundaries.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-5183 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a powerful means of persistence and privilege escalation within virtualized environments. The vulnerability affects VMware host systems through guest virtual machines, creating a potential attack path for adversaries seeking to compromise entire virtualized infrastructures. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where virtualization is extensively used, as it could enable attackers to gain control of multiple virtual machines from a single compromised guest instance. The exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond the execution of a malicious shader, making it suitable for automated attacks and potentially leading to widespread compromise. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and defense evasion, as the code execution occurs at the driver level with elevated privileges. The vulnerability also relates to initial access through potentially compromised software installations, as it can be exploited through malicious graphics content or applications that utilize the vulnerable driver components. Organizations using AMD graphics hardware in virtualized environments face significant risk from this vulnerability, as it can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors or escalate privileges to system-level access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-5183 should prioritize immediate driver updates from AMD, as the vulnerability is addressed through patches that correct the type confusion issue in the ATIDXX64.DLL component. System administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit potential attack vectors, particularly in virtualized environments where the vulnerability can be exploited across guest-host boundaries. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can help prevent execution of malicious shader files, while monitoring for unusual graphics driver behavior or memory access patterns should be enabled. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary graphics features or shader processing capabilities in virtual machines until the vulnerability is fully patched. Additionally, regular security assessments of virtualized environments should include verification of graphics driver versions and patch status, as this vulnerability can remain undetected for extended periods. The mitigation approach should align with industry best practices for managing driver-level vulnerabilities and should include monitoring for exploitation attempts through security information and event management systems that can detect anomalous behavior in graphics processing components.