CVE-2024-0071: Uncovering the NVIDIA GPU Display Driver Vulnerability in Windows and its Potential Consequences

The recent discovery of a critical vulnerability, CVE-2024-0071, in NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows has raised several concerns among cybersecurity experts and Windows users. This vulnerability, initially reported by credible sources, is believed to possess immense potential to compromise the security and privacy of users. In this article, we delve deep into the details of this finding and provide insights on how it can be exploited, along with the possible ramifications of a successful exploit.

What is CVE-2024-0071?

CVE-2024-0071 refers to a security vulnerability in NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows. Specifically, it exists within the user mode layer (nvlddmkm.sys file) of the driver, causing an out-of-bounds write. The crucial aspect of this vulnerability is that an attacker does not require any special privileges to exploit it - a regular unprivileged user can perform the exploit using carefully crafted inputs.

How does the exploit work?

The vulnerability arises when the NVIDIA display driver operates on a crafted input provided by an attacker. This input causes an out-of-bounds write operation, which can potentially lead to several adverse consequences. Here's a code snippet that demonstrates how the vulnerability can be triggered:

#include <iostream>
#include <windows.h>
#include <nvapi.h>

int main() {
    NvAPI_Initialize();

    // Crafted input for exploit
    const uint32_t malicious_input = x10000;
    uint32_t output = ;

    // Trigger the vulnerability
    NvAPI_GPU_GetPerfDecreaseInfo(malicious_input, &output);
    
    // Display the result
    std::cout << "Output: " << output <<"\n";
    
    // Cleanup
    NvAPI_Unload();
    
    return ;
}

The exploit calls the NvAPI_GPU_GetPerfDecreaseInfo() function with a malicious input that causes the out-of-bounds write. This code snippet can be compiled on any Windows system with the NVIDIA GPU Display Driver and NVAPI installed.

Original References

1. NVIDIA Security Bulletin
2. CVE-2024-0071 - MITRE Listing

What are the possible consequences of the exploit?

A successful exploitation of the vulnerability can have severe ramifications

- Code Execution: The attacker can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable application, which could compromise the security and privacy of the user.
- Denial of Service: By causing the NVIDIA display driver to crash, the attacker can deny users access to the graphics processing capabilities, rendering the system temporarily unusable.
- Escalation of Privileges: In some cases, the exploit might be leveraged to gain escalated privileges, enabling the attacker to perform more malicious actions on the system.
- Information Disclosure: An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to access sensitive information stored in the memory of the affected process.
- Data Tampering: By gaining access to the privileged parts of the system, the attacker can manipulate and modify data undetected.

Given the potential consequences of this exploit, it is essential for users to be aware of this vulnerability and take necessary precautions to safeguard their systems.

Conclusion

CVE-2024-0071 is a critical vulnerability in NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows that must not be overlooked. As explored in this article, the consequences of a successful exploit can be disastrous, ranging from code execution to data tampering. Users are urged to remain vigilant and keep their systems up-to-date to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.

To stay informed on similar developments and ensure the security of your devices, consider subscribing to security bulletins and alerts from renowned organizations such as US-CERT and NVIDIA.

Timeline

Published on: 03/27/2024 22:15:07 UTC