CVE-2018-3657 in CSME
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in Intel AMT in Intel CSME firmware versions before version 12.0.5 may allow a privileged user to potentially execute arbitrary code with Intel AMT execution privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3657 represents a critical security flaw within Intel Active Management Technology that resides in the Intel Converged Security and Management Engine firmware. This issue affects Intel CSME firmware versions prior to 12.0.5 and stems from multiple buffer overflow conditions that can be exploited by a locally authenticated user to gain elevated privileges and execute arbitrary code within the Intel AMT execution context. The vulnerability specifically targets the management engine's processing of input data, where insufficient bounds checking allows malicious input to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to privilege escalation and remote code execution capabilities.
Buffer overflows in this context fall under CWE-121, which describes conditions where data written to a buffer extends beyond its allocated memory boundaries, creating opportunities for attackers to overwrite critical program data or execution control structures. The flaw manifests when Intel AMT processes user-supplied data through various interfaces, including local management interfaces and network protocols that utilize the underlying CSME firmware. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe because Intel AMT operates with elevated privileges and maintains access to system hardware and network interfaces, making it a prime target for attackers seeking persistent access to enterprise systems.
The operational implications of CVE-2018-3657 extend beyond traditional privilege escalation scenarios, as the affected systems typically represent enterprise infrastructure components that require continuous availability and security. When exploited, this vulnerability can enable attackers to establish persistent backdoors within corporate networks, potentially compromising entire enterprise environments through compromised management interfaces. The local access requirement means that an attacker must first gain some level of system access, but once achieved, the privilege escalation capabilities can be leveraged to gain full administrative control over the affected systems. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers can leverage the elevated privileges to execute malicious commands within the system context.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-3657 primarily focus on firmware updates and system hardening measures. Organizations should immediately apply Intel's firmware updates to CSME versions 12.0.5 and later, which contain patches addressing the buffer overflow conditions. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit local access to systems running Intel AMT, reducing the attack surface for potential exploitation. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual activities related to Intel AMT interfaces, particularly when system administrators are not actively using management interfaces. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining current firmware versions across all enterprise systems, as older firmware versions may contain similar vulnerabilities that could be exploited through different attack vectors. Organizations should implement regular vulnerability assessments targeting management engine components and establish monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts.