CVE-2022-4989

ASUS · AI Suite 3

Improper input validation in the ASUS AI Suite 3 driver allows a local authenticated user to access unintended memory regions via crafted IOCTL requests, leading to privilege escalation.

Executive summary

A privilege escalation vulnerability in the ASUS AI Suite 3 driver allows local users to gain unauthorized access to system memory through malicious IOCTL requests.

Vulnerability

The driver fails to validate input quantities, allowing an authenticated local user to perform out-of-bounds memory access. This vulnerability facilitates the elevation of privileges from a standard user to a higher-privileged context.

Business impact

This vulnerability enables local users to bypass standard security boundaries, potentially leading to full system compromise or the installation of persistent threats. With a CVSS score of 8.5, the risk is substantial for organizations that allow users to run local applications on systems where AI Suite 3 is installed.

Remediation

Immediate Action: Update the ASUS AI Suite 3 driver to the latest patched version provided by the manufacturer.

Proactive Monitoring: Monitor system logs for repeated crashes or unexpected behavior in the AI Suite 3 driver processes.

Compensating Controls: Implement the principle of least privilege by restricting user access to systems where this software is installed and limiting the ability to execute arbitrary local code.

Exploitation status

Public Exploit Available: false

Analyst recommendation

The risk of privilege escalation necessitates immediate action, particularly in multi-user environments. Administrators should prioritize updating the vulnerable driver to ensure local system integrity and prevent unauthorized administrative access.