CVE-2021-34389 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Trusty contains a vulnerability in NVIDIA OTE protocol message parsing code, allowing a local user to access memory from the heap in the TrustZone, potentially leading to information disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2021-34389

This CVE impacts NVIDIA Jetson, TX2 series, TX2 NX, AGX Xavier series, and Xavier NX devices due to a vulnerability within the Trusty platform's NVIDIA OTE protocol message parsing code.

What is CVE-2021-34389?

Trusty is affected by a vulnerability in NVIDIA OTE protocol message parsing code, which could be exploited by a local user through a malicious client to access memory from the heap in the TrustZone, potentially resulting in information disclosure.

The Impact of CVE-2021-34389

The vulnerability poses a medium risk with a CVSS base score of 5. It has a high impact on confidentiality, allowing unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored in the TrustZone memory.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-34389

The CVE affects all Jetson Linux versions prior to r32.5.1. Here are the technical details:

Vulnerability Description

An incorrect bounds check in the NVIDIA OTE protocol message parsing code can be exploited by a local user to access heap memory in TrustZone.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Products: NVIDIA Jetson, TX2 series, TX2 NX, AGX Xavier series, Xavier NX
Affected Versions: All Jetson Linux versions prior to r32.5.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a local user through a malicious client, leveraging the incorrect bounds check to access heap memory, potentially leading to information disclosure.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-34389, consider the following:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected systems to Jetson Linux version r32.5.1 or later to address the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive information stored in TrustZone memory.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch NVIDIA Jetson devices to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.
Implement strong security measures to prevent unauthorized access and information disclosure.

Patching and Updates

Keep abreast of security advisories from NVIDIA to stay informed about patches and updates related to Trusty and the NVIDIA OTE protocol.