CVE-2024-28954 is a medium-severity vulnerability identified in Intel(R) Graphics Driver installers. The core issue arises from incorrect default permissions set on certain installer components, which may allow an authenticated local user with limited privileges to escalate their privileges on the affected system. Specifically, the vulnerability requires local access and some level of authentication, meaning the attacker must already have a user account on the system. The vulnerability is rooted in the installer’s permission configuration, which could permit a user to modify or replace files or execute code with elevated privileges during or after the installation process. This escalation of privilege could lead to the attacker gaining higher-level access than originally granted, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code with elevated rights, modify system settings, or install persistent malware. The CVSS 4.0 base score of 5.4 reflects a medium severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), partial privileges required (PR:L), and user interaction required (UI:A). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is rated high, indicating that successful exploitation could significantly compromise system security. However, the requirement for local access and user interaction reduces the overall risk compared to remote or zero-interaction vulnerabilities. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no specific patch links were provided, suggesting that mitigation may rely on vendor updates or manual permission corrections once available. The vulnerability affects Intel Graphics Driver installers, which are widely used across many systems, especially in environments utilizing Intel integrated graphics hardware. Given the nature of the vulnerability, it primarily targets Windows-based systems where these drivers are installed.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a notable risk primarily in environments where Intel integrated graphics hardware is prevalent, such as corporate desktops, laptops, and workstations. The ability for a low-privileged authenticated user to escalate privileges could lead to insider threats or lateral movement within networks, especially in organizations with shared or multi-user systems. Confidentiality could be compromised if attackers gain access to sensitive data through elevated privileges. Integrity and availability could also be affected if attackers modify system files or disrupt driver functionality, potentially causing system instability or denial of service. Sectors with high reliance on Intel hardware, including finance, government, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure, may face increased risk. Additionally, organizations with less stringent endpoint security controls or those that allow users to install or update drivers themselves are more vulnerable. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation, but in environments with remote desktop access or shared workstations, the threat remains significant. Overall, the vulnerability could facilitate more sophisticated attacks if combined with other exploits, increasing the potential impact on European enterprises.

To mitigate this vulnerability effectively, European organizations should: 1) Monitor Intel’s official channels for patches or updated driver installers that correct permission settings and apply them promptly. 2) Implement strict endpoint security policies restricting user ability to install or update drivers without administrative approval. 3) Audit and correct permissions on existing Intel Graphics Driver installer files and related directories to ensure they do not allow unauthorized modifications. 4) Employ application whitelisting and integrity monitoring tools to detect unauthorized changes to driver files or installers. 5) Limit local user privileges rigorously, ensuring users operate with the least privilege necessary and do not have administrative rights by default. 6) Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious activities indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 7) Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted software and the importance of reporting unusual system behavior. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on permission audits, strict privilege management, and proactive monitoring specific to driver installation processes.