Intel warns of major flaw in driver update software

Intel has patched a major flaw in its driver utility tool that could allow attackers to install malware on victim PCs remotely.

The chipmaker has issued a patch advisory for its Driver Update Utility, urging customers to download the new version of the software.

The tool analyses system drivers on a user's computer and reports on and downloads any new drivers that are available.

The flaw - which exists because the software requests new drivers from Intel servers over an unencrypted connection - allows attackers to instigate man-in-the-middle attacks and cause the download of malicious files and software on victim PCs.

Proof of concept exploits of the vulnerability have already been posted online.

Versions 2.0 to 2.3 are affected, Intel said. It is urging customers to download version 2.4, which uses a secure SSL connection to request new drivers from Intel servers.

Intel was alerted to the flaw by infosec firm Core Security last November.

The firm said attackers could easily bypass the software's verification and therefore exploit the flaw without difficulty.