CVE-2021-1119 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

NVIDIA vGPU software, specifically the Virtual GPU Manager (vGPU plugin), has been identified with a critical vulnerability that can be exploited by attackers. This vulnerability could lead to a denial of service and potentially allow for the execution of arbitrary code, jeopardizing system integrity and availability.

Understanding CVE-2021-1119

This section delves into the details of the CVE-2021-1119 vulnerability found in NVIDIA Virtual GPU Software.

What is CVE-2021-1119?

The vulnerability in the Virtual GPU Manager can result in a double-free pointer issue, creating a write-what-where scenario. This flaw could enable malicious actors to execute arbitrary code, impacting the system's integrity and availability.

The Impact of CVE-2021-1119

With a CVSS base score of 7.1 (High severity), the exploitability of this vulnerability is relatively low. However, the potential impact on availability and integrity is significant, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-1119

This section outlines the technical aspects of CVE-2021-1119, providing insights into the vulnerability's description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a double-free pointer issue in the Virtual GPU Manager, posing a risk of denial of service and the execution of arbitrary code. This could have severe consequences for system security.

Affected Systems and Versions

NVIDIA Virtual GPU Software versions 13.x (prior to 13.1), 12.x (prior to 12.4), 11.x (prior to 11.6), and 8.x (prior to 8.9) are impacted by this vulnerability. Users of these versions are at risk and should take immediate action.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can potentially leverage this vulnerability to trigger a denial of service attack and execute unauthorized code on affected systems, compromising their integrity and availability.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we discuss the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-1119 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply relevant security patches provided by NVIDIA to address the vulnerability promptly. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for any signs of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security measures, such as network segmentation, access controls, and regular security assessments, can enhance the overall cybersecurity posture and help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating software and firmware, including NVIDIA Virtual GPU Software, is crucial to ensure that systems are equipped with the latest security enhancements and fixes.