CVE-2021-1052 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows and Linux, all versions, contains a vulnerability in the kernel mode layer (nvlddmkm.sys) handler for DxgkDdiEscape or IOCTL. User-mode clients can access legacy privileged APIs, leading to denial of service, escalation of privileges, and information disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2021-1052

This section provides insight into the nature and impact of CVE-2021-1052.

What is CVE-2021-1052?

CVE-2021-1052 is a vulnerability found in NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows and Linux that allows user-mode clients to access privileged APIs, potentially resulting in denial of service, privilege escalation, and information disclosure.

The Impact of CVE-2021-1052

The vulnerability in the driver's kernel mode layer can be exploited to cause denial of service, elevate user privileges, and access sensitive data, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-1052

In this section, we delve into specific technical aspects of the CVE-2021-1052 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the handling of DxgkDdiEscape or IOCTL by the kernel mode layer (nvlddmkm.sys) of NVIDIA GPU Display Driver, enabling unauthorized access to privileged APIs.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows and Linux are affected by CVE-2021-1052, making a wide range of systems vulnerable to potential exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2021-1052 involves leveraging the vulnerability in the driver's kernel mode layer to gain unauthorized access to legacy privileged APIs, leading to denial of service, elevation of privileges, or information disclosure.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines strategies to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-1052.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and administrators are advised to apply patches, follow security updates, and monitor NVIDIA's official advisories to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-1052.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust cybersecurity measures, such as regular security audits, limiting user privileges, and maintaining up-to-date software, can bolster defenses against similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Timely installation of security patches released by NVIDIA and staying informed about the latest security recommendations are crucial steps towards reducing the likelihood of exploitation of CVE-2021-1052.