CVE-2021-23217 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-23217 affecting NVIDIA GPU and Tegra hardware. Understand the impact, technical details, affected systems, and mitigation steps for enhanced system security.
NVIDIA GPU and Tegra hardware contain a vulnerability in the internal microcontroller that allows a user with elevated privileges to corrupt code execution. This can impact confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system.
Understanding CVE-2021-23217
This CVE identifies a vulnerability in NVIDIA GPU and Tegra hardware that could be exploited by users with elevated privileges to perform malicious actions.
What is CVE-2021-23217?
The vulnerability in the internal microcontroller of NVIDIA GPU and Tegra hardware allows users with elevated privileges to initiate a DMA write operation during a specific time window. This can result in code execution corruption, potentially affecting the system's confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
The Impact of CVE-2021-23217
The impact of this vulnerability may extend beyond the affected components to compromise the integrity and security of the entire system, putting sensitive data at risk.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-23217
This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability affecting NVIDIA GPU and Tegra hardware.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows a user with elevated privileges to perform a DMA write operation within a specific time window, leading to code execution corruption.
Affected Systems and Versions
NVIDIA GPU hardware versions, including Maxwell, GP100, Tegra X1, Tegra X1+, and Tegra TX2, are affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Users with elevated privileges can exploit this vulnerability by initiating a DMA write operation within a specific time window to corrupt code execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-23217 and enhance system security, the following mitigation strategies are recommended.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update NVIDIA GPU and Tegra hardware to the latest firmware version provided by NVIDIA.
- Implement access controls and restrictions to limit user privileges and access to critical system components.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor for security updates and patches released by NVIDIA for GPU and Tegra hardware.
- Conduct periodic security assessments and audits to identify and address any potential security vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security advisories and alerts regarding NVIDIA GPU and Tegra hardware to apply patches promptly.