CVE-2022-28189 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2022-28189, a vulnerability in NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows that may cause system crashes due to a NULL pointer dereference. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows has been found to contain a vulnerability that could result in a system crash due to a NULL pointer dereference in the kernel mode layer.
Understanding CVE-2022-28189
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows, specifically in the kernel mode layer handler for DxgkDdiEscape, leading to a NULL pointer dereference issue.
What is CVE-2022-28189?
The CVE-2022-28189 vulnerability affects all GPU Driver versions for Windows, posing a risk of system crashes due to a NULL pointer dereference within the driver.
The Impact of CVE-2022-28189
With a CVSS base score of 5.5 and a medium severity rating, this vulnerability has a high impact on the availability of affected systems. The attack complexity is low, requiring local access, and low privileges are needed for exploitation.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-28189
The technical details of this vulnerability include:
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability exists in the kernel mode layer (nvlddmkm.sys) handler for DxgkDdiEscape, where a NULL pointer dereference can trigger system crashes.
Affected Systems and Versions
All versions of the NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker with low privileges and local access can exploit this vulnerability through a NULL pointer dereference, potentially leading to a system crash.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2022-28189, consider the following mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update their NVIDIA GPU Display Driver for Windows to the latest version as provided by NVIDIA. Additionally, monitor for any unusual system crashes that could indicate exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Practicing good security hygiene, such as keeping systems up to date with the latest security patches and employing strong access controls, can help prevent potential exploitation of vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates released by NVIDIA for the GPU Display Driver for Windows and apply them promptly to mitigate the risk of system crashes due to the NULL pointer dereference vulnerability.