CVE-2023-43751 in Graphics Windows DCH Driver
Summary
by MITRE • 05/17/2024
Uncontrolled search path in Intel(R) Graphics Command Center Service bundled in some Intel(R) Graphics Windows DCH driver software before versions 31.0.101.3790/31.0.101.2114 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-43751 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Intel(R) Graphics Command Center Service, which is distributed as part of certain Intel(R) Graphics Windows DCH driver software versions. This issue affects systems running vulnerable driver versions prior to 31.0.101.3790 and 31.0.101.2114, creating a significant security risk for authenticated local users who can exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of search paths within the graphics command center service, which allows an attacker to manipulate the execution flow of system components. The affected service operates with elevated privileges, making it an attractive target for privilege escalation attacks that could ultimately lead to full system compromise.
The technical flaw manifests through an uncontrolled search path condition that occurs when the Intel Graphics Command Center Service processes certain file operations or system calls. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-428 category of Uncontrolled Search Path, which is a well-documented weakness in software design that allows attackers to influence the order in which components are loaded or executed. The service fails to properly validate or sanitize the search paths used during component resolution, creating opportunities for malicious code injection. When an authenticated user executes specific operations that trigger the service's search mechanism, the system may inadvertently load malicious binaries from directories with higher precedence in the search order, effectively enabling code execution with elevated privileges. This behavior aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which describes the exploitation of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial as it requires only local authentication to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users have legitimate access to systems. An attacker with standard user credentials can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges without requiring additional attack vectors or complex exploitation techniques. Once successfully exploited, the attacker gains elevated privileges that could allow them to install malicious software, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors within the affected system. The vulnerability affects Windows operating systems that utilize the Intel Graphics DCH drivers, which are commonly found in modern laptops and desktop computers, amplifying the potential attack surface. The fact that this vulnerability exists within a graphics command center service suggests that it may be triggered through normal user interactions with graphics-related applications or system settings, making detection and prevention more challenging.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-43751 should prioritize the immediate installation of updated Intel Graphics drivers that address this specific vulnerability. System administrators should ensure that all affected systems receive patches from Intel, specifically targeting driver versions 31.0.101.3790 or 31.0.101.2114 and later. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege management can help reduce the impact if exploitation occurs, as users should only have the minimum necessary permissions for their roles. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual privilege escalation activities can aid in detecting potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary graphics command center services when they are not actively needed, reducing the attack surface. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current driver software and implementing comprehensive patch management processes to address security flaws in third-party components that operate with elevated privileges. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for outdated graphics drivers and other system components that may contain similar search path vulnerabilities.