CVE-2021-0104 in Rapid Storage Technology
Summary
by MITRE • 06/10/2021
Uncontrolled search path element in the installer for the Intel(R) Rapid Storage Technology software, before versions 17.9.0.34, 18.0.0.640 and 18.1.0.24, may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-0104 represents a critical security flaw within the Intel Rapid Storage Technology installer software ecosystem. This issue manifests as an uncontrolled search path element that fundamentally compromises the integrity of the installation process. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Intel Rapid Storage Technology software including versions prior to 17.9.0.34, 18.0.0.640, and 18.1.0.24, indicating a widespread impact across the product line. The flaw specifically resides in how the installer handles path resolution during the installation process, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate the installation flow.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of environment variables and path resolution mechanisms within the installer component. When an authenticated user executes the installer, the system does not properly validate or sanitize the search paths that the installer uses to locate required components. This behavior creates a condition where malicious code can be loaded and executed with elevated privileges, as the installer inadvertently incorporates components from untrusted locations within the search path. The vulnerability operates under the principle that the installer fails to properly isolate its execution environment, allowing for path manipulation attacks that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to enterprise environments where Intel Rapid Storage Technology is deployed. The requirement for authenticated access means that an attacker must first obtain valid user credentials, but once achieved, the privilege escalation potential allows for substantial system compromise. The local access requirement limits the attack surface to systems where the user has physical or remote access, but this still represents a critical threat vector in environments where insider threats or compromised accounts are possible. The vulnerability can be exploited to install malicious software, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access points within the affected systems.
The impact of this vulnerability aligns with common attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under privilege escalation techniques and defense evasion methods. The uncontrolled search path element directly maps to techniques involving DLL injection and path manipulation, which are frequently used in advanced persistent threat campaigns. This vulnerability also relates to CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which specifically addresses the security implications of not properly controlling the search paths used by applications and installers. Organizations utilizing Intel Rapid Storage Technology software must consider this vulnerability as part of their comprehensive security posture assessment, particularly in environments where multiple users have access to systems running these affected versions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-0104 should prioritize immediate software updates to the patched versions mentioned in the advisory, specifically versions 17.9.0.34, 18.0.0.640, and 18.1.0.24. System administrators should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all affected installations are updated promptly. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict access controls to prevent unauthorized users from executing installers, monitoring system logs for suspicious installation activities, and employing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized software components. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software within their environments and implement network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.