CVE-2018-12185 in CSME
Summary
by MITRE
Insufficient input validation in Intel(R) AMT in Intel(R) CSME before version 11.8.60, 11.11.60, 11.22.60 or 12.0.20 may allow an unauthenticated user to potentially execute arbitrary code via physical access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-12185 represents a critical security flaw within Intel's Active Management Technology (AMT) component of the Intel Converged Security and Management Engine (CSME). This weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that exist within the AMT subsystem, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through physical access. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Intel CSME including versions prior to 11.8.60, 11.11.60, 11.22.60, and 12.0.20, indicating a widespread impact across various generations of Intel's management engine firmware. The flaw specifically allows unauthenticated users to potentially execute arbitrary code when they have physical access to a vulnerable system, which fundamentally undermines the security model that relies on the assumption that physical access is required for system compromise.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes "Improper Input Validation" as a fundamental weakness in software design. This classification indicates that the vulnerability exists due to insufficient validation of data inputs received by the AMT component, allowing malformed or malicious inputs to bypass security checks and potentially lead to code execution. The attack vector requires physical access, which places this vulnerability in the context of supply chain attacks or insider threats where an attacker can directly interact with the target system. From an operational perspective, this flaw represents a significant risk because it can be exploited by attackers who have gained physical access to a system, potentially allowing them to establish persistent backdoors, extract sensitive data, or perform other malicious activities without requiring network connectivity or authentication credentials.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to bypass traditional security controls that rely on network-based authentication and monitoring. When combined with the fact that AMT operates at a low system level and has extensive privileges, successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's presence in the management engine means that even if a system's operating system is compromised or locked down, the underlying AMT functionality can still be leveraged for malicious purposes. From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Visual Basic," as the exploitation could involve executing code through the management interface. The physical access requirement also connects to ATT&CK technique T1014, which deals with "Rootkit," as attackers could establish persistent access through the management engine. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader attack surface that includes both network-based and physical access vectors, requiring comprehensive security strategies that account for all potential attack paths.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-12185 primarily focus on firmware updates and system hardening measures. The most effective solution involves updating the Intel CSME firmware to versions 11.8.60, 11.11.60, 11.22.60, or 12.0.20, which contain the necessary patches to address the input validation deficiencies. System administrators should also consider disabling AMT functionality when it is not required for management purposes, as this reduces the attack surface and eliminates the risk associated with the vulnerable component. Additionally, physical security measures should be strengthened to prevent unauthorized access to systems, particularly in environments where sensitive data is processed. Network segmentation and monitoring can help detect potential exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments should verify that systems remain patched and that no unauthorized changes have occurred. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current firmware versions and implementing robust physical security controls, as the combination of these approaches provides the most effective defense against exploitation of management engine vulnerabilities.