Nvidia, the leading graphics processor manufacturer, has recently issued critical security updates for its GPU drivers on Windows and Linux platforms, as well as for its virtual GPU (vGPU) software. These patches address at least eight severe vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited by malicious actors for various attacks, including arbitrary code execution and privilege escalation.
Windows Driver Vulnerabilities: A Closer Look
Several critical vulnerabilities (CVE-2024-0117 through CVE-2024-0121) were discovered in Nvidia’s Windows graphics drivers. These flaws are related to out-of-bounds read issues that could be exploited by unprivileged users. The potential consequences of these vulnerabilities are severe, ranging from arbitrary code execution and privilege escalation to denial of service (DoS) attacks, sensitive information leaks, and data tampering.
Cross-Platform Vulnerability Affecting Both Windows and Linux
A particularly concerning vulnerability (CVE-2024-0126) impacts GPU drivers for both Windows and Linux operating systems. This flaw allows a privileged attacker to further elevate their privileges, potentially leading to the same severe outcomes as the Windows-specific vulnerabilities. The cross-platform nature of this vulnerability underscores the importance of updating drivers across all affected systems.
Affected Product Lines and Driver Branches
Nvidia has released patches for a wide range of its products, including GeForce, NVIDIA RTX, Quadro, NVS, and Tesla series. The vulnerabilities have been addressed in the following driver branches:
- For Windows: R565, R560, R555, R550, and R535
- For Linux: R565, R550, and R535
It’s crucial to note that earlier driver versions may also be affected, emphasizing the need for all users to update their drivers to the latest versions as soon as possible.
Virtual GPU Software Vulnerabilities: Implications for Cloud and Virtualized Environments
Nvidia has also patched two significant vulnerabilities in its virtual GPU software:
1. vGPU Manager Kernel Driver Vulnerability (CVE-2024-0127)
This vulnerability allows a guest OS user to trigger improper input validation, potentially compromising the guest OS kernel. The consequences include privilege escalation, information leaks, data modification, arbitrary code execution, and DoS attacks.
2. vGPU Manager Vulnerability (CVE-2024-0128)
This flaw enables a guest OS user to access global resources, potentially leading to privilege escalation, information leaks, and data modification.
Both vulnerabilities have been addressed in Nvidia vGPU versions 17.4 and 16.8, as well as in the October release of Nvidia Cloud Gaming.
These security updates highlight the critical importance of timely patching and driver updates in maintaining robust cybersecurity postures. System administrators and users of Nvidia products are strongly advised to verify their installed driver versions and apply the latest security updates immediately. Regular updating and vulnerability monitoring are key elements of an effective cybersecurity strategy, especially for critical system components like graphics drivers.
As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, staying vigilant and proactive in applying security patches is crucial. Organizations and individuals alike should prioritize the implementation of these updates to mitigate potential risks and safeguard their systems against emerging threats. By taking swift action and maintaining up-to-date software, users can significantly enhance their overall security posture and protect against potential exploits targeting these now-patched vulnerabilities.
