CVE-2020-6100:Memory corruption vulnerability in AMD atidxx64.dll graphics driver allows for remote code execution.

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A memory corruption vulnerability (CVE-2020-6100) exists in AMD atidxx64.dll version 26.20.15019.19000 graphics driver. When processing a specially crafted pixel shader, the driver can experience memory corruption that could lead to code execution. This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it can potentially be triggered from guest virtual machines to escape to the host system in virtualization environments like VMware, QEMU, VirtualBox, and notably was demonstrated in HYPER-V using RemoteFX, executing vulnerable code in the rdvgm.exe process on the host. Additionally, there's a theoretical attack vector through web browsers using WebGL and WebAssembly technologies.

Overview

This vulnerability (CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write) affects the AMD atidxx64.dll graphics driver, version 26.20.15019.19000. The issue occurs when processing specially crafted pixel shader files, resulting in memory corruption that could lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in virtualized environments, as it provides a potential path for guest-to-host escapes. During security research, it was successfully triggered from a HYPER-V guest using RemoteFX, causing execution of vulnerable code on the HYPER-V host within the rdvgm.exe process. Security researchers have also theorized that this vulnerability could potentially be exploited through web browsers that support WebGL and WebAssembly, though this attack vector hasn't been confirmed in the wild.

Remediation

To mitigate this vulnerability:

  1. Update AMD graphics drivers to the latest version that contains patches for this vulnerability
  2. In virtualization environments, consider disabling unnecessary 3D acceleration features like RemoteFX if they're not required
  3. For HYPER-V administrators, ensure RemoteFX settings are properly secured or disabled if not needed
  4. Apply any vendor-specific security patches for virtualization platforms that address this vulnerability
  5. Consider implementing additional security controls to restrict access to graphics subsystems in multi-tenant environments

References

  1. Cisco Talos Vulnerability Report: https://talosintelligence.com/vulnerability_reports/TALOS-2020-1040
  2. Related previous vulnerabilities:
    • TALOS-2018-0533
    • TALOS-2018-0568
  3. CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/787.html

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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