CVE-2024-28950 in oneAPI Math Kernel Library Software
Summary
by MITRE • 11/13/2024
Uncontrolled search path for some Intel(R) oneAPI Math Kernel Library software for Windows before version 2024.2 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-2024-28950 affects Intel(R) oneAPI Math Kernel Library software for Windows versions prior to 2024.2, representing a critical security weakness that could be exploited by authenticated users with local access to escalate privileges. This issue stems from an uncontrolled search path within the software implementation, creating a potential attack vector that adversaries could leverage to gain elevated system privileges. The vulnerability specifically impacts the library's handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms, where the software fails to properly validate or restrict the search paths used during runtime execution.
The technical flaw manifests in the improper management of library search paths during the loading of dependent modules within the Intel oneAPI Math Kernel Library. When the library attempts to load dynamic link libraries, it may inadvertently traverse directories in an uncontrolled manner, allowing an attacker to place malicious DLLs in locations that are prioritized in the search order. This behavior aligns with CWE-427, which describes uncontrolled search path vulnerabilities where a program searches for libraries in a predictable order that can be manipulated by an attacker. The flaw essentially creates a race condition or path manipulation opportunity that bypasses normal security controls.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to systems that utilize Intel oneAPI Math Kernel Library, particularly in enterprise environments where multiple applications depend on the library for mathematical computations. An authenticated local user could exploit this weakness by placing malicious libraries in directories that the vulnerable software searches, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges. The attack requires local system access and user authentication, making it less suitable for remote exploitation but still concerning for environments where local access is possible or where privilege escalation could lead to broader system compromise. The impact extends beyond individual applications to potentially affect system integrity and data confidentiality across the entire computing environment.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by updating to Intel oneAPI Math Kernel Library version 2024.2 or later, which includes fixed search path handling mechanisms. System administrators should also implement additional security controls such as restricting write access to library directories, monitoring for suspicious file placements, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments. The mitigation strategy should align with ATT&CK technique T1068, which addresses privilege escalation through local system exploits, emphasizing the importance of maintaining secure library loading practices. Additional defensive measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, monitoring for unauthorized DLL injection attempts, and ensuring proper file system permissions are enforced. Organizations should also consider network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs, and maintain comprehensive logging of library loading activities to detect anomalous behavior patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.