CVE-2023-1017 in TPM2.0 Module Library
Summary
by MITRE • 02/28/2023
An out-of-bounds write vulnerability exists in TPM2.0's Module Library allowing writing of a 2-byte data past the end of TPM2.0 command in the CryptParameterDecryption routine. An attacker who can successfully exploit this vulnerability can lead to denial of service (crashing the TPM chip/process or rendering it unusable) and/or arbitrary code execution in the TPM context.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-1017 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the TPM 2.0 Module Library component, specifically within the CryptParameterDecryption routine. This issue manifests when processing TPM 2.0 commands where the software attempts to write 2 bytes of data beyond the allocated buffer boundaries. The flaw resides in the cryptographic parameter decryption mechanism that handles TPM command processing, making it particularly dangerous as it operates within the trusted execution environment of the TPM chip itself. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions that can lead to system instability and potential code execution. This type of vulnerability is especially concerning in hardware security modules where the integrity of the security context is paramount.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs during the decryption of cryptographic parameters within TPM 2.0 command processing. When the CryptParameterDecryption routine processes incoming commands, it fails to properly validate buffer boundaries before writing data, allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The specific nature of the write operation targeting 2 bytes beyond the command buffer end creates a precise memory corruption scenario that can trigger immediate system crashes or more subtle corruption that may enable privilege escalation. This flaw demonstrates a classic buffer overflow condition that has been documented in security literature as one of the most dangerous software vulnerabilities due to its potential for arbitrary code execution within the trusted execution environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-1017 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios into the realm of complete system compromise. A successful exploit can cause the TPM chip to crash or become permanently unusable, effectively removing a critical security component from the system. In scenarios where the TPM is used for secure key storage, attestation, or encryption operations, this vulnerability creates a pathway for attackers to undermine the entire security infrastructure. The vulnerability's potential for arbitrary code execution within the TPM context aligns with ATT&CK technique T1548.001, which covers abuse of privileges through local privilege escalation. The impact is particularly severe because TPMs are designed to operate in trusted execution environments, and compromising their integrity undermines fundamental security assumptions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-1017 require both immediate patching and architectural considerations. Organizations should prioritize updating their TPM firmware and software libraries to versions that address the out-of-bounds write condition in the CryptParameterDecryption routine. System administrators should implement monitoring for TPM process crashes or unexpected behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's nature suggests that defensive measures should include runtime integrity checks and memory protection mechanisms that can detect and prevent buffer overflows. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation to limit access to TPM interfaces and reduce the attack surface. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their TPM implementations to identify potential secondary impacts from this flaw, as the compromise of TPM integrity can affect multiple security mechanisms throughout the system.