CVE-2020-8744 in CSME
Summary
by MITRE • 11/12/2020
Improper initialization in subsystem for Intel(R) CSME versions before12.0.70, 13.0.40, 13.30.10, 14.0.45 and 14.5.25, Intel(R) TXE versions before 4.0.30 Intel(R) SPS versions before E3_05.01.04.200 may allow a privileged user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/06/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-8744 represents a critical security flaw in Intel's management subsystems including CSME TXE and SPS components. This issue stems from improper initialization of security-critical subsystems within Intel's firmware implementations. The vulnerability affects multiple generations of Intel management engines and subsystems, specifically targeting versions prior to the specified patches for CSME 12.0.70, 13.0.40, 13.30.10, 14.0.45, and 14.5.25, as well as TXE 4.0.30 and SPS E3_05.01.04.200. The flaw exists in the initialization sequence of these subsystems, creating potential security gaps that could be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical nature of this vulnerability involves a failure in the proper initialization of security controls within Intel's platform management subsystems. When these components fail to initialize correctly, they may not enforce proper access controls or security policies that should normally be active from the moment the subsystem becomes operational. This improper initialization creates a window of opportunity where security boundaries may be weakened or bypassed, particularly affecting the privilege escalation mechanisms that should normally prevent unauthorized access to system resources. The vulnerability specifically impacts the initialization process of core security subsystems that manage access to platform-level functions and resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-8744 is significant as it enables a privileged user to potentially escalate their privileges through local access to the system. This means that an attacker who already has some level of access to the system could exploit this flaw to gain higher privileges, potentially reaching administrative or root-level access. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the foundational security components that protect against unauthorized access and privilege escalation attempts. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can potentially allow attackers to bypass security controls that are designed to protect the integrity and confidentiality of the system. This type of vulnerability can be leveraged to establish persistent access to systems or to perform operations that should normally be restricted.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-8744 primarily involve updating to the patched versions of Intel management subsystems as specified in the vulnerability advisory. System administrators should prioritize patching all affected Intel CSME, TXE, and SPS components to ensure proper initialization of security controls. Additionally, organizations should implement monitoring for unauthorized privilege escalation attempts and maintain strict access controls to prevent unauthorized users from gaining the initial access required to exploit this vulnerability. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-665 improper initialization and relates to ATT&CK technique T1068 privilege escalation through local system access. Organizations should also consider implementing hardware-based security measures and maintaining comprehensive system integrity monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts.