CVE-2023-28378 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an in-depth look at CVE-2023-28378, detailing the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2023-28378

CVE-2023-28378 is a published vulnerability that involves improper authorization in certain Intel(R) QAT drivers for Windows - HW Version 2.0 before version 2.0.4. This vulnerability may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.

What is CVE-2023-28378?

The CVE-2023-28378 vulnerability pertains to improper authorization within specific Intel(R) QAT drivers for Windows - HW Version 2.0, specifically impacting versions before version 2.0.4. An authenticated user could exploit this vulnerability to potentially escalate their privileges through local access.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28378

The impact of CVE-2023-28378 is categorized as MEDIUM with a base score of 6.7 according to the CVSS v3.1 scoring system. The vulnerability could lead to an escalation of privilege for an authenticated user with high privileges, posing risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28378

The technical details of CVE-2023-28378 shed light on the vulnerability itself, the affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves improper authorization in Intel(R) QAT drivers for Windows - HW Version 2.0 before version 2.0.4, potentially enabling an authenticated user with local access to escalate their privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

The specific product affected by CVE-2023-28378 is the Intel(R) QAT drivers for Windows - HW Version 2.0, specifically versions prior to version 2.0.4. Systems utilizing these versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-28378 requires an authenticated user with access to the affected Intel(R) QAT drivers for Windows - HW Version 2.0 before version 2.0.4. By leveraging local access, the user could potentially escalate their privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-28378, it is crucial to implement immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and ensure timely patching and updates to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately address the CVE-2023-28378 vulnerability by monitoring and restricting access to the affected Intel(R) QAT drivers for Windows - HW Version 2.0. Review and enhance privilege management practices to prevent unauthorized escalation of privileges.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establish robust security protocols, conduct regular security audits, and educate users on best security practices to fortify overall cybersecurity posture and mitigate vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-28378 effectively.

Patching and Updates

Ensure all systems running Intel(R) QAT drivers for Windows - HW Version 2.0 are updated to version 2.0.4 or above to patch the vulnerability. Regularly check for security advisories and apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities and bolster system security.