CVE-2020-0576 in Modular Server MFS2600KISPP Compute Module
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Intel(R) Modular Server MFS2600KISPP Compute Module may allow an unauthenticated user to potentially enable denial of service via adjacent access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-0576 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Intel Modular Server MFS2600KISPP Compute Module firmware. This issue resides in the system's handling of input data structures that exceed allocated memory boundaries, creating potential pathways for malicious exploitation. The affected hardware platform operates within data center environments where physical proximity is often required for exploitation, though the implications extend beyond simple network access requirements.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the compute module's firmware components. When processing specific data inputs, the system fails to properly bounds-check array operations, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This flaw typically manifests during routine system operations or configuration changes where the firmware processes user-supplied parameters without sufficient sanitization. The vulnerability operates at the system firmware level, making it particularly concerning as it bypasses traditional operating system security controls and can affect the core functionality of the modular server platform.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability creates significant risks for enterprise environments relying on Intel Modular Server infrastructure. The adjacent access requirement means that exploitation necessitates physical proximity to the target system, limiting the attack surface but not eliminating the threat entirely. Network administrators must consider that unauthorized physical access could lead to complete system compromise, potentially affecting multiple connected devices within the modular server framework. The denial of service impact can disrupt critical business operations, particularly in environments where continuous availability is paramount for mission-critical applications.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates from Intel to address the buffer overflow conditions, along with physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to server environments. Network segmentation and access controls should be reinforced to limit potential attack vectors, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and may correlate with ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and system compromise through firmware manipulation. Security teams should also consider implementing hardware-based security features such as Intel's Platform Trust Technology to provide additional protection layers against such low-level exploits.