CVE-2019-5146 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the AMD ATIDXX64.DLL driver, version 26.20.13025.10004, allows for an out-of-bounds read exploit, potentially leading to a denial of service attack. This vulnerability can be triggered by a specially crafted pixel shader file within a VMware guest, affecting the VMware host.

Understanding CVE-2019-5146

This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in the AMD ATIDXX64.DLL driver that can be exploited through an out-of-bounds read.

What is CVE-2019-5146?

The vulnerability is present in the AMD ATIDXX64.DLL driver, version 26.20.13025.10004.
It can be exploited by a carefully designed pixel shader, leading to a denial of service.
An attacker needs to supply a shader file that has been crafted to trigger the vulnerability.
The exploit can impact the VMware host from within a VMware guest.

The Impact of CVE-2019-5146

The vulnerability allows attackers to potentially cause a denial of service by exploiting the out-of-bounds read issue.
An attacker can disrupt the normal operation of the affected system by triggering this vulnerability.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-5146

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Type: Out-of-bounds read
Exploitation: Through a specially crafted pixel shader
Consequence: Denial of service

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: AMD
Version: AMD ATIDXX64.DLL (26.20.13025.10004) running on Radeon RX 550 / 550 Series VMware Workstation 15 (15.5.0 build-14665864) with Windows 10 x64 as guestVM

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by providing a carefully crafted shader file.
The exploit can be triggered from within a VMware guest, potentially affecting the VMware host.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-5146 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by AMD promptly.
Monitor AMD's security advisories for updates and follow recommended actions.
Implement strict file input validation to prevent the execution of malicious shader files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and drivers on the system.
Conduct security training for users to recognize and report suspicious activities.
Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates released by AMD for the ATIDXX64.DLL driver.
Ensure timely installation of patches to mitigate the vulnerability effectively.