CVE-2020-8678
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability in Intel Graphics Drivers allows authenticated local users to escalate privileges on affected systems. Attackers could gain higher system permissions than intended. Affects systems with vulnerable Intel Graphics Drivers before specified versions.
💻 Affected Systems
- Intel Graphics Drivers
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full system compromise with administrative/root privileges, allowing complete control over the affected system.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation enabling attackers to install malware, modify system settings, or access restricted data.
If Mitigated
Limited impact with proper user access controls and monitoring in place.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires local authenticated access. No public exploit code available at time of advisory.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: 15.45.33.5164 or 27.20.100.8280 and later
Vendor Advisory: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/security-center/advisory/intel-sa-00438.html
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Visit Intel Driver & Support Assistant or download from Intel website. 2. Download latest graphics driver version. 3. Install update. 4. Restart system.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict local user access
allLimit local user accounts and implement least privilege principles
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict access controls and monitor for suspicious local privilege escalation attempts
- Segment affected systems and limit their access to critical resources
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Intel Graphics Driver version in Device Manager (Windows) or via 'lspci -v' and driver info (Linux)Check Version:
Windows: dxdiag or Device Manager. Linux: glxinfo | grep 'OpenGL version' or check driver package versionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify driver version is 15.45.33.5164 or higher (for older drivers) or 27.20.100.8280 or higher (for newer drivers)📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected privilege escalation events
- Suspicious driver-related process creation
Network Indicators:
- Not applicable - local exploit only
SIEM Query:
EventID 4688 (Windows) with parent process related to graphics drivers or unexpected privilege changes