CVE-2017-5706 in Server Platform Service
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in kernel in Intel Server Platform Services Firmware 4.0 allow attacker with local access to the system to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/09/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5706 represents a critical security flaw within the kernel components of Intel Server Platform Services Firmware version 4.0. This issue manifests as multiple buffer overflow conditions that occur during kernel execution, creating opportunities for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability specifically affects systems running Intel Server Platform Services Firmware 4.0, which is commonly deployed in enterprise server environments where robust security controls are paramount. These buffer overflows arise from insufficient input validation and memory management practices within the firmware's kernel modules, particularly in areas responsible for system monitoring and management functions. The flaw is particularly concerning because it requires only local access to exploit, meaning an attacker who has already gained user-level access to a system can leverage this vulnerability to achieve kernel-level privileges and execute malicious code with elevated system rights.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper handling of user-supplied data within kernel memory regions, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite critical kernel structures or execute malicious instructions. Buffer overflow conditions typically occur when programs write more data to a fixed-length buffer than it can accommodate, causing adjacent memory locations to be overwritten. In the context of kernel firmware, this can result in control flow hijacking through stack corruption or heap-based memory corruption that allows attackers to manipulate program execution. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution as it can potentially enable persistent backdoor installation, system compromise, and complete loss of system integrity. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it operates within kernel space, eliminating the need for complex exploitation techniques that would typically be required to bypass modern memory protection mechanisms like DEP and ASLR.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-5706 is severe for enterprise environments that rely on Intel Server Platform Services Firmware 4.0, as it provides attackers with a pathway to achieve complete system compromise from a local privileged position. Organizations running affected systems face potential data breaches, system availability disruptions, and the risk of lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability's presence in server firmware means that successful exploitation can lead to persistent access that may remain undetected for extended periods, as the compromised system can be used as a foothold for further attacks. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which involves the use of command and scripting interpreters, and T1068, which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities. The attack surface is particularly significant in data center environments where multiple servers may be running the vulnerable firmware, potentially creating cascading effects if one system is compromised. The vulnerability also intersects with ATT&CK technique T1055, which covers process injection methods, as attackers may attempt to inject malicious code into legitimate kernel processes to maintain persistence.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5706 must focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary recommendation involves updating to the latest firmware versions from Intel that contain patches addressing the identified buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should prioritize patch deployment across all affected server platforms and verify that the updates have been properly applied. System administrators should implement additional security controls including kernel module whitelisting, enhanced monitoring for anomalous kernel behavior, and regular security assessments of firmware components. Network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting local access privileges. The implementation of runtime protection mechanisms such as kernel address space layout randomization and stack canaries can provide additional defense-in-depth layers against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also establish comprehensive incident response procedures that include firmware integrity monitoring and automated vulnerability scanning to detect similar issues in other system components. Regular security training for system administrators on firmware security best practices and the importance of maintaining updated system components remains essential for preventing exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities.