CVE-2024-28046 in GPA Software
Summary
by MITRE • 08/14/2024
Uncontrolled search path in some Intel(R) GPA software before version 2024.1 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/07/2024
Intel Graphics Performance Analyzer software contains a vulnerability in its search path handling mechanism that could allow authenticated users with local access to escalate privileges. This issue affects versions prior to 2024.1 and stems from improper validation of system paths during software execution. The vulnerability arises when the application fails to properly sanitize or validate the PATH environment variable or other search paths used to locate required libraries or executables. An attacker with local access and authentication credentials could manipulate these search paths to redirect execution flow to malicious code, potentially gaining elevated privileges. The flaw represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Elements, where the application's search path contains untrusted elements that could be manipulated by an attacker. This vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1068 Privilege Escalation through the use of local system access to exploit path manipulation for privilege elevation. The affected software typically runs with elevated privileges during performance analysis operations, making the potential impact more severe. The vulnerability can be exploited by placing malicious libraries or executables in directories that are searched before legitimate system directories, allowing the attacker to inject code that executes with the privileges of the running process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable broader system compromise. When Intel GPA executes with elevated privileges, an attacker who successfully manipulates the search path could execute arbitrary code with system-level permissions, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only local access and authentication, making it accessible through various attack vectors including compromised user accounts or physical access to systems. This weakness creates a persistent threat vector that could be exploited by attackers who gain initial access through other means, as the privilege escalation capability provides a path to deeper system infiltration. The vulnerability also affects the software's integrity since it allows unauthorized code injection through legitimate system paths, undermining the security assumptions of the application's execution environment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves updating to Intel Graphics Performance Analyzer version 2024.1 or later, which includes proper path validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should also implement strict path control measures such as enforcing secure PATH variable configurations, using absolute paths for critical executables, and implementing application whitelisting policies. System administrators should review and harden the PATH environment variables to ensure that untrusted directories are not included in the search path for privileged applications. Additional defensive measures include monitoring for suspicious path manipulation activities, implementing least privilege principles for user accounts that access the software, and conducting regular security assessments of system configurations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly for applications that operate with elevated privileges and require access to system resources. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime application self-protection mechanisms and behavioral monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be enforced to ensure all software components remain current with the latest security mitigations.