CVE-2017-5683 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability found in the Intel Hardware Accelerated Execution Manager prior to version 6.0.6 allows local users to escalate privileges and gain system level control.

Understanding CVE-2017-5683

This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in the Intel Hardware Accelerated Execution Manager (IntelHAXM) driver.

What is CVE-2017-5683?

The vulnerability in the IntelHAXM.sys driver in the Intel Hardware Accelerated Execution Manager, before version 6.0.6, enables a user with local access to escalate their privileges and obtain system level control.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5683

The vulnerability allows a local user to gain system level access, potentially leading to unauthorized control over the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5683

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the IntelHAXM.sys driver allows local users to escalate their privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Intel Hardware Accelerated Execution Manager
Vendor: Intel
Versions Affected: Before v6.0.6

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability enables a user with local access to escalate their privileges and gain system level control.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-5683 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Intel Hardware Accelerated Execution Manager to version 6.0.6 or later.
Monitor system activity for any signs of unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access.
Regularly review and update security configurations to prevent privilege escalation.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Intel to address the vulnerability.