CVE-2023-4211 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-4211 vulnerability, assigned by Arm, was published on October 1, 2023. The vulnerability allows a local non-privileged user to perform improper GPU memory processing operations, potentially gaining access to already freed memory. Google Threat Analysis Group and Google Project Zero were credited with its discovery.

Understanding CVE-2023-4211

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-4211, shedding light on the nature and impact of the vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-4211?

The vulnerability in the Mali GPU Kernel Driver enables a local user with low privileges to manipulate GPU memory operations in a way that grants unauthorized access to previously released memory blocks. This could lead to potential security breaches and data compromise.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4211

The impact of this vulnerability is categorized as CAPEC-233 Privilege Escalation, highlighting the risk of unauthorized escalation of privileges that could be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or perform unauthorized actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4211

In this section, we explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-4211, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from improper GPU memory handling within the Mali GPU Kernel Driver, allowing an unprivileged local user to exploit memory operations improperly, potentially leading to security breaches.

Affected Systems and Versions

Midgard GPU Kernel Driver (Arm Ltd) version r12p0
Bifrost GPU Kernel Driver (Arm Ltd) version r0p0
Valhall GPU Kernel Driver (Arm Ltd) version r19p0
Arm 5th Gen GPU Architecture Kernel Driver (Arm Ltd) version r41p0

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability involves manipulating GPU memory processing operations by a local non-privileged user to access memory that has already been freed, potentially leading to unauthorized data access.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent CVE-2023-4211 is crucial to safeguarding systems against potential exploits and security breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Implement access controls to restrict unauthorized users from accessing GPU memory.
Regularly monitor and audit GPU memory operations for any suspicious activities.
Apply security patches and updates promptly to the affected Mali GPU Kernel Drivers.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe computing practices and the importance of system security.
Implement defense-in-depth strategies to protect critical systems and data from unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Arm is likely to release patches for the affected Mali GPU Kernel Drivers to resolve the vulnerability. It is crucial for organizations using these drivers to apply the patches as soon as they are available to mitigate the risk of exploitation and enhance overall system security.