CVE-2023-5427 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE, assigned by Arm, was published on December 1, 2023. It involves a vulnerability in the Arm Ltd Bifrost GPU Kernel Driver, Arm Ltd Valhall GPU Kernel Driver, and Arm Ltd Arm 5th Gen GPU Architecture Kernel Driver that allows a local non-privileged user to perform improper GPU processing operations to gain access to already freed memory.

Understanding CVE-2023-5427

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-5427, outlining what the vulnerability entails and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2023-5427?

The CVE-2023-5427 vulnerability is classified under CWE-416 as a "Use After Free" issue. It specifically affects the Arm Ltd Bifrost GPU Kernel Driver, Valhall GPU Kernel Driver, and Arm 5th Gen GPU Architecture Kernel Driver from versions r44p0 through r45p0.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5427

This vulnerability poses a risk as it allows unauthorized access to already freed memory by exploiting improper GPU processing operations. Local non-privileged users could potentially exploit this flaw to execute malicious actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5427

This section provides a deeper dive into the technical aspects related to CVE-2023-5427, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The Use After Free vulnerability in the Arm GPU Kernel Drivers enables unauthorized users to manipulate GPU processing operations, leading to access to previously freed memory. This could result in unauthorized data access or system compromise.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include the Bifrost GPU Kernel Driver, Valhall GPU Kernel Driver, and Arm 5th Gen GPU Architecture Kernel Driver versions ranging from r44p0 to r45p0.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting this vulnerability, local non-privileged users can manipulate GPU processing operations to gain unauthorized access to freed memory, potentially leading to security breaches.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-5427, users are advised to take immediate steps to mitigate the risk and adopt long-term security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future. Applying patches and updates is crucial for safeguarding affected systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users impacted by this vulnerability should upgrade to the fixed version, r46p0, available for the Bifrost, Valhall, and Arm 5th Gen GPU Architecture Kernel Drivers. This step is essential to eliminate the risk posed by CVE-2023-5427.

Long-Term Security Practices

Incorporating robust security measures, such as regular security audits, access controls, and user permissions, can enhance overall system security and prevent potential exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating systems and applying patches released by Arm for the GPU Kernel Drivers is crucial to ensure the ongoing security and integrity of the systems. Users are strongly advised to stay informed about security updates and promptly implement them to protect against known vulnerabilities.