CVE-2023-4272 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Mali GPU Kernel Driver that allows a local non-privileged user to access sensitive data from previously freed memory. The CVE was published on November 7, 2023, by Arm.

Understanding CVE-2023-4272

This section provides detailed insights into the nature and impact of CVE-2023-4272.

What is CVE-2023-4272?

CVE-2023-4272 refers to a vulnerability in the Mali GPU Kernel Driver that enables a local non-privileged user to exploit improper GPU memory processing operations to access sensitive data from memory that has already been freed.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4272

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows malicious actors to potentially expose sensitive information from previously freed memory, posing a threat to data security and confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4272

Here, we delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-4272, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Mali GPU Kernel Driver allows unauthorized access to sensitive data through GPU memory processing operations on freed memory segments.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following GPU kernel drivers from Arm Ltd are affected:

Midgard GPU Kernel Driver (version r8p0)
Bifrost GPU Kernel Driver (version r0p0 to less than r42p0)
Valhall GPU Kernel Driver (version r19p0 to less than r42p0)
Arm 5th Gen GPU Architecture Kernel Driver (version r41p0 to less than r42p0)

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting improper GPU memory processing operations, a local non-privileged user can manipulate the Mali GPU Kernel Driver to access sensitive data from previously freed memory.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2023-4272.

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure that systems using the affected GPU drivers are closely monitored for any suspicious activities.
Implement strict access controls and permissions to restrict unauthorized users from exploiting the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the GPU drivers to the latest patched versions provided by Arm to address the vulnerability.
Conduct thorough security assessments and audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities in GPU drivers.

Patching and Updates

Arm Ltd may release patches and updates to fix the vulnerability in the affected GPU kernel drivers. It is crucial to promptly apply these patches to secure systems against potential exploitation.