CVE-2017-8083 in Intense PC
Summary
by MITRE
CompuLab Intense PC and MintBox 2 devices with BIOS before 2017-05-21 do not use the CloseMnf protection mechanism for write protection of flash memory regions, which allows local users to install a firmware rootkit by leveraging administrative privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8083 affects CompuLab Intense PC and MintBox 2 devices that shipped with BIOS versions prior to 2017-05-21. This represents a critical firmware security flaw that undermines the fundamental integrity protection mechanisms designed to prevent unauthorized modifications to system firmware. The vulnerability specifically relates to the absence of CloseMnf protection, a crucial security feature that should prevent write operations to protected flash memory regions during normal system operation. This weakness creates a persistent attack vector that can be exploited by local users with administrative privileges to install firmware rootkits, effectively compromising the device at the lowest system level.
The technical flaw stems from the failure to implement proper flash memory write protection mechanisms within the BIOS firmware implementation. CloseMnf protection is a standard security feature that should be enabled to prevent unauthorized firmware modifications during runtime operations. When this protection is absent, the firmware flash memory becomes vulnerable to write operations that should be restricted to legitimate firmware update processes only. This allows attackers with administrative access to manipulate critical firmware components, potentially installing persistent malware that can survive operating system reinstallation or reboot operations.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables local privilege escalation attacks that can result in complete system compromise. The ability to install firmware rootkits means that attackers can establish persistent backdoors that operate below the operating system level, making detection extremely difficult. These rootkits can intercept system calls, modify boot processes, and maintain access even after system reboots. The vulnerability affects devices that were likely deployed in enterprise environments, making it particularly concerning as it could allow attackers to maintain long-term access to critical infrastructure. The attack requires only local administrative privileges, making it accessible to users who already have elevated system access, potentially through social engineering or credential compromise attacks.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-1173, which addresses the improper handling of firmware security mechanisms, and represents a failure to implement proper flash memory protection protocols. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving firmware modification and persistence mechanisms, specifically covering T1014 (System Firmware) and T1070 (Indicator Removal on Host). Organizations should immediately update affected devices to BIOS versions released after 2017-05-21 that include proper CloseMnf protection implementation. Additional mitigations include implementing firmware integrity monitoring solutions, restricting administrative privileges, and conducting regular firmware security assessments. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual firmware modification activities should also be considered as defensive measures against potential exploitation of this vulnerability.