CVE-2019-0140 in Ethernet 700 Series Controller
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in firmware for Intel(R) Ethernet 700 Series Controllers before version 7.0 may allow an unauthenticated user to potentially enable an escalation of privilege via an adjacent access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-0140 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the firmware of Intel(R) Ethernet 700 Series Controllers. This security weakness exists in firmware versions prior to 7.0 and affects network interface controllers that are widely deployed in enterprise and data center environments. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the firmware implementation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through adjacent network access. The affected controllers are commonly integrated into servers, network switches, and other networking equipment where they handle critical network traffic processing and management functions.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow vulnerability occurs when the firmware fails to properly validate the length of incoming data packets or configuration parameters. When an unauthenticated user with adjacent network access sends specially crafted malicious data to the affected controller, the firmware's memory management routines overflow the allocated buffer space, potentially overwriting adjacent memory regions. This memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution within the firmware context, providing attackers with elevated privileges that exceed normal operational boundaries. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-121: Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which represents a fundamental memory safety issue where data written to a buffer exceeds its allocated size. The attack vector requires adjacent access, meaning the attacker must be physically present on the same network segment or have network-level access to the target device, but does not require authentication credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can enable attackers to gain persistent control over network infrastructure components. Once exploited, the compromised controller could allow attackers to manipulate network traffic, redirect communications, or establish backdoor access points within the network. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where these controllers manage critical network infrastructure and may be integrated with security systems, monitoring tools, and access control mechanisms. The attack could potentially disrupt network availability, compromise data integrity, and enable lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security posture of systems using these controllers, as it allows attackers to compromise network infrastructure at a level below the operating system, making detection and remediation more challenging. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068: Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, where attackers leverage software vulnerabilities to gain elevated system privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-0140 primarily focus on firmware updates and network segmentation controls. Organizations should immediately deploy firmware version 7.0 or later from Intel, which includes patches addressing the buffer overflow conditions. Network administrators should implement strict access controls to limit adjacent network access to these controllers, utilizing network segmentation, VLANs, and firewall rules to restrict unauthorized access. The implementation of network monitoring solutions capable of detecting anomalous traffic patterns or unauthorized configuration changes can help identify exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular firmware inventory management and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to ensure all network infrastructure components remain up to date with security patches. Physical security measures should also be reinforced around network equipment to prevent unauthorized physical access that could enable exploitation of this vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing network access control lists and disabling unnecessary services on affected controllers to minimize attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of firmware security in network infrastructure, as these low-level components often operate with elevated privileges and can provide persistent access points for attackers.