CVE-2022-21162 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A detailed overview of CVE-2022-21162, covering the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2022-21162

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2022-21162, focusing on the vulnerability in Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update tool for NUC.

What is CVE-2022-21162?

The CVE-2022-21162 vulnerability involves an uncontrolled search path in the Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update tool for NUC before version 1.79.1.1, potentially allowing an authenticated user to execute an escalation of privilege via local access.

The Impact of CVE-2022-21162

With a base severity rated as MEDIUM, this vulnerability poses a significant risk by enabling an attacker to escalate privileges on affected systems. The CVSS score of 6.7 highlights the severity of the issue, emphasizing the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-21162

Explore the technical aspects of CVE-2022-21162, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from an uncontrolled search path in the Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update tool for NUC before version 1.79.1.1, which may be abused by authenticated users to execute privilege escalation attacks locally.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update tool for NUC versions prior to 1.79.1.1 are affected by CVE-2022-21162, making them susceptible to privilege escalation through the exploitation of the uncontrolled search path.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability requires local access to the target system, where an authenticated user can manipulate the uncontrolled search path to elevate their privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the recommended steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2022-21162, ensuring the security of systems and data.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update tool for NUC to version 1.79.1.1 or later to address the vulnerability and prevent potential privilege escalation attacks. It is crucial to restrict local access and monitor system activity to detect any unauthorized attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Incorporating robust access controls, regular security audits, and employee training on safe computing practices can enhance the long-term security posture of organizations, reducing the likelihood of successful privilege escalation attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Intel and promptly apply patches and updates to all software and firmware components to address known vulnerabilities and ensure the integrity of systems and data.