CVE-2022-40971 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides an in-depth overview of CVE-2022-40971, a vulnerability affecting Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update Tool for NUC before version 1.79.1.1 that could lead to an escalation of privilege via local access.

Understanding CVE-2022-40971

CVE-2022-40971 is a security vulnerability related to incorrect default permissions in the Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update Tool for NUC. This flaw could potentially allow an authenticated user to escalate privileges with local access.

What is CVE-2022-40971?

The vulnerability CVE-2022-40971 involves incorrect default permissions in the Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update Tool for NUC before version 1.79.1.1. An attacker with local access could exploit this flaw to escalate privileges, impacting system security.

The Impact of CVE-2022-40971

The impact of CVE-2022-40971 is classified as MEDIUM based on the CVSS v3.1 base score of 6.7. Successful exploitation could result in a significant compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-40971

The following technical details provide insight into the vulnerability and its implications:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves incorrect default permissions in the Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update Tool for NUC before version 1.79.1.1. An authenticated user could exploit this flaw to enable an escalation of privilege through local access.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update Tool for NUC, specifically versions before 1.79.1.1. Systems using these versions are vulnerable to the privilege escalation issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2022-40971 requires an authenticated user to leverage the incorrect default permissions in the firmware update tool, granting them the ability to escalate privileges locally.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-40971 and enhance system security, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update the Intel(R) HDMI Firmware Update Tool for NUC to version 1.79.1.1 or later to eliminate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to the affected tool to mitigate the risk of privilege escalation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement least privilege access control to limit user permissions and reduce the impact of potential vulnerabilities.
Regularly update and patch software to address security flaws and enhance system resilience.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Intel and other vendors to promptly apply patches and updates addressing known vulnerabilities.