CVE-2023-32661 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security vulnerability, CVE-2023-32661, was recently identified in some Intel(R) NUC Kits NUC7PJYH and NUC7CJYH Realtek* SD Card Reader Driver installation software. This CVE allows an authenticated user to potentially achieve an escalation of privilege via local access. Below are the details of this vulnerability and how to mitigate it.

Understanding CVE-2023-32661

This section provides an overview of the CVE-2023-32661 vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-32661?

The CVE-2023-32661 vulnerability involves improper authentication in the Intel(R) NUC Kits NUC7PJYH and NUC7CJYH Realtek* SD Card Reader Driver installation software. It affects versions before 10.0.19041.29098 and could potentially lead to an escalation of privilege.

The Impact of CVE-2023-32661

The impact of CVE-2023-32661 is rated as medium, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 6.7. This vulnerability may allow an authenticated user to escalate their privileges via local access, posing a threat to system security.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-32661

This section delves into the specifics of the CVE-2023-32661 vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to improper authentication in the Intel(R) NUC Kits NUC7PJYH and NUC7CJYH Realtek* SD Card Reader Driver installation software before version 10.0.19041.29098. This flaw could be exploited by an authenticated user to potentially elevate their privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Intel(R) NUC Kits NUC7PJYH and NUC7CJYH Realtek* SD Card Reader Driver installation software versions prior to 10.0.19041.29098. Systems running these versions are at risk of privilege escalation.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2023-32661, an authenticated user with local access could take advantage of the improper authentication within the Realtek* SD Card Reader Driver installation software to escalate their privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2023-32661 vulnerability, enhancing system security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the Intel(R) NUC Kits NUC7PJYH and NUC7CJYH Realtek* SD Card Reader Driver installation software to version 10.0.19041.29098 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring access controls and user privileges is recommended.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong authentication mechanisms, regularly updating software, and conducting security audits can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches from Intel to address potential vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-32661 and ensure the overall security of your systems.