CVE-2024-23312 in Binary Configuration Tool Software
Summary
by MITRE • 11/13/2024
Uncontrolled search path for some Intel(R) Binary Configuration Tool software for Windows before version 3.4.5 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-23312 affects Intel(R) Binary Configuration Tool software for Windows versions prior to 3.4.5, representing a critical security flaw that could enable authenticated users to escalate privileges through local access. This issue stems from an uncontrolled search path within the software's execution environment, creating a potential attack vector for privilege escalation. The vulnerability specifically impacts systems where the affected tool is installed and executed with local user privileges, making it particularly concerning for environments where users might have limited administrative rights but still need to perform certain configuration tasks.
The technical flaw manifests in how the Intel Binary Configuration Tool handles search paths during software execution, allowing an attacker to manipulate the tool's behavior by placing malicious components in locations that are searched before legitimate system directories. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-428 category, which specifically addresses "Search Path Vulnerability" where programs search for files in predictable locations that can be manipulated by attackers. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only local authentication and does not necessitate network connectivity or complex attack vectors, making it accessible to users with basic system access.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for enterprise environments where the Intel Binary Configuration Tool is commonly deployed for system configuration and management purposes. The privilege escalation capability means that an attacker who can authenticate locally to a system could potentially gain elevated privileges and access sensitive system resources, configuration data, or other privileged information. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and could enable attackers to move laterally within a network or gain access to critical infrastructure components that should only be accessible to system administrators.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is expanded by the widespread deployment of Intel's binary configuration tools across enterprise environments, particularly in scenarios where system administrators need to perform low-level hardware configuration tasks. The vulnerability is classified under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as part of the privilege escalation technique, specifically targeting the "Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism" tactic where attackers exploit weaknesses in access control mechanisms. Organizations using affected versions of the software face potential exposure to attackers who may leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to system resources and potentially compromise entire network infrastructures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-23312 primarily focus on updating to Intel Binary Configuration Tool version 3.4.5 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the uncontrolled search path issue. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including regular vulnerability assessments, monitoring for unauthorized local access attempts, and ensuring proper access controls are in place for systems running the affected software. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing robust patch management procedures to protect against known security flaws that could be exploited for privilege escalation attacks.