CVE-2018-12191 in CSME
Summary
by MITRE
Bounds check in Kernel subsystem in Intel CSME before version 11.8.60, 11.11.60, 11.22.60 or 12.0.20, or Intel(R) Server Platform Services before versions 4.00.04.383 or SPS 4.01.02.174, or Intel(R) TXE before versions 3.1.60 or 4.0.10 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-2018-12191 represents a critical bounds check flaw within the kernel subsystem of Intel's Converged Security Management Engine (CSME) and related components. This issue affects multiple Intel firmware implementations including the Server Platform Services (SPS) and Trusted Execution Engine (TXE) across various version ranges. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly verify array bounds during kernel operations, creating potential pathways for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The technical nature of this flaw involves improper bounds checking within the kernel subsystem of Intel's security firmware, which operates at a level below the operating system and maintains privileged access to system resources. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array index bounds, and specifically relates to the broader category of buffer overflows and memory corruption vulnerabilities. The flaw exists in the firmware level implementation where the kernel subsystem processes data without adequate validation of input parameters, allowing malicious actors to manipulate memory access patterns through crafted inputs.
Operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it requires only physical access to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical security controls may be insufficient. An attacker with physical access can potentially leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code within the firmware context, which operates with the highest privilege levels and can bypass traditional operating system security mechanisms. This capability allows for complete system compromise, including potential persistence mechanisms, data exfiltration, and further exploitation of the underlying hardware platform. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Intel platforms including servers, workstations, and embedded systems, making it a widespread concern across enterprise and industrial environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-12191 focus primarily on firmware updates and physical security measures. Organizations should immediately deploy the patched firmware versions released by Intel, which include versions 11.8.60, 11.11.60, 11.22.60, 12.0.20 for CSME, 4.00.04.383 or SPS 4.01.02.174 for Server Platform Services, and 3.1.60 or 4.0.10 for TXE. Beyond firmware updates, implementing robust physical security controls becomes essential as the vulnerability requires physical access for exploitation, though this should not be the sole defense mechanism. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be employed to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves privilege escalation through exploitation of system vulnerabilities, and T1543, which covers persistence mechanisms that can be established through firmware-level compromise. Security teams should also consider implementing firmware integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized modifications to the affected components.