CVE-2021-1078 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-1078 affecting NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps to prevent system crashes.
NVIDIA Windows GPU Display Driver for Windows, all versions, contains a vulnerability in the kernel driver where a NULL pointer dereference may lead to system crash.
Understanding CVE-2021-1078
This CVE identifies a vulnerability in NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows that can result in a system crash due to a NULL pointer dereference.
What is CVE-2021-1078?
CVE-2021-1078 pertains to a flaw in the NVIDIA Windows GPU Display Driver for Windows, affecting all versions. The vulnerability resides in the kernel driver (nvlddmkm.sys), posing a risk of system crashes.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1078
The impact of this CVE is rated as MEDIUM with a CVSS base score of 5.5. Although it requires low privileges for exploitation, the availability impact is high, potentially leading to denial of service.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1078
This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows arises from a NULL pointer dereference in the kernel driver (nvlddmkm.sys), which can trigger system crashes.
Affected Systems and Versions
All versions of the NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows are susceptible to this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires low privileges and has a local attack vector. The attack complexity is rated as LOW.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting your systems from CVE-2021-1078 is crucial to ensure security and prevent potential system crashes.
Immediate Steps to Take
Immediately update your NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows to the latest version to mitigate the risk of system crashes due to the identified vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Incorporate regular software updates and security patches within your organization's IT security policy to stay protected from emerging threats.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates released by NVIDIA for the GPU Display Driver for Windows and ensure timely application to prevent vulnerabilities.