CVE-2024-22378 in Unite Client Extended Display Plugin Software Installers
Summary
by MITRE • 08/14/2024
Incorrect default permissions in some Intel Unite(R) Client Extended Display Plugin software installers before version 1.1.352.157 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-22378 affects Intel Unite Client Extended Display Plugin software installations prior to version 1.1.352.157, representing a critical security flaw that stems from improper default permission settings during the installation process. This issue specifically targets the software's installer component which fails to establish appropriate access controls for temporary files or installation artifacts, creating potential pathways for privilege escalation. The vulnerability exists at the installation phase rather than during runtime, making it particularly concerning as it allows an authenticated user to manipulate the installation environment before the software is fully deployed. According to CWE-732, this represents an inadequate permission assignment where the software creates files or directories with overly permissive access controls that should be restricted to administrative users only.
The technical flaw manifests when the installer creates temporary files or registry entries with world-readable or world-writable permissions, or when it fails to properly secure installation directories that persist after installation. An authenticated user with local access can exploit these weak permissions to modify or replace critical installation components, potentially injecting malicious code or altering the behavior of the extended display plugin. The privilege escalation occurs because the installer does not properly enforce the principle of least privilege, allowing standard users to gain elevated access rights that should only be available to administrators. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and specifically addresses the use of local system vulnerabilities to elevate privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-22378 extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it can enable attackers to modify core system components that control display functionality and extended desktop capabilities. In enterprise environments where Intel Unite solutions are deployed, this vulnerability could allow malicious insiders or compromised user accounts to gain persistent access to extended display features and potentially access additional system resources. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the installation level, meaning that any user with local access and installation privileges can exploit it. This creates a significant risk for organizations that do not maintain strict access controls or regularly update their software components, as the vulnerability can be exploited to establish backdoors or maintain persistent access through modified display plugins that are frequently used in collaborative environments.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to Intel Unite Client Extended Display Plugin version 1.1.352.157 or later, which addresses the improper permission settings in the installer. System administrators should also conduct thorough audits of existing installations to identify any systems that may have been compromised through this vulnerability, particularly focusing on the installation directories and temporary file locations that were created during the vulnerable installation process. Additional mitigations include implementing strict access controls for installation directories, monitoring for unauthorized modifications to installation artifacts, and ensuring that only authorized administrators have the ability to install or modify system components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper permission management during software installation processes, as highlighted in industry standards that emphasize the need for secure default configurations and the principle of least privilege in all system components.