CVE-2024-21814 in Chipset Device Software
Summary
by MITRE • 05/17/2024
Uncontrolled search path for some Intel(R) Chipset Device Software before version 10.1.19444.8378 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-21814 represents a significant security weakness within Intel(R) Chipset Device Software affecting versions prior to 10.1.19444.8378. This issue falls under the category of uncontrolled search path exploitation, a technique that exploits how software resolves file paths during execution. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where the chipset device software fails to properly validate or restrict the search paths used by applications, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate system behavior through carefully crafted file placements.
The technical flaw manifests when authenticated users with local access can manipulate the software search path to load malicious code instead of legitimate components. This occurs because the chipset device software does not adequately sanitize or validate the directories from which it loads dependent libraries or executables. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only local authentication, meaning an attacker who has already gained user-level access to a system can potentially escalate their privileges to administrator or system level access. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path, which specifically addresses the risk of applications using insecure search paths that can be manipulated by attackers.
From an operational perspective, the impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially compromise entire system architectures. Systems running affected Intel chipset software versions become vulnerable to attacks that could result in persistent backdoors, data exfiltration, or complete system compromise. The local access requirement means that attackers don't need network exposure or complex remote exploitation techniques, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for environments where local access is not strictly controlled or monitored. This weakness can be exploited as part of broader attack chains, potentially enabling attackers to establish persistent access or move laterally within network environments.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2024-21814 centers on updating to the patched version of Intel(R) Chipset Device Software, specifically version 10.1.19444.8378 or later. Organizations should prioritize this update across all affected systems, particularly those running critical infrastructure or sensitive data processing workloads. Additionally, system administrators should implement strict access controls and monitoring to detect unusual file access patterns that might indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the T1068 privilege escalation tactic where adversaries leverage software flaws to gain higher system privileges. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for unauthorized file modifications in system directories to prevent exploitation attempts.