CVE-2021-42055 in ZenBook Pro Due 15 UX582
Summary
by MITRE • 10/18/2021
ASUSTek ZenBook Pro Due 15 UX582 laptop firmware through 203 has Insecure Permissions that allow attacks by a physically proximate attacker.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-42055 affects the firmware of ASUSTek ZenBook Pro Due 15 UX582 laptop models with firmware version 203 or earlier. This represents a critical security weakness that stems from inadequate permission controls within the device's firmware implementation, creating an exploitable vector for attackers who can physically access the target system. The vulnerability specifically resides in the firmware layer of the laptop's hardware architecture, where insufficient access controls have been implemented to protect sensitive system components from unauthorized manipulation.
The technical flaw manifests through insecure permission settings that fail to properly restrict access to critical firmware functions and memory regions. This weakness allows a physically proximate attacker to gain elevated privileges and potentially execute malicious code within the firmware environment. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control issues, particularly focusing on insufficient permissions in firmware contexts. Attackers exploiting this weakness can leverage their physical proximity to the device to perform unauthorized modifications to the system's boot process, firmware integrity, or other critical system functions that typically require elevated privileges to access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it fundamentally compromises the device's security posture from the moment of physical access. An attacker with proximity to the device can potentially install persistent backdoors, modify boot loaders, or corrupt firmware components that would normally require secure boot mechanisms or authenticated access to alter. This creates a persistent threat vector that can survive operating system reinstallation or even complete hardware replacement, as the malicious modifications reside at the firmware level. The vulnerability also represents a significant concern in enterprise environments where stolen or lost devices could be exploited by unauthorized individuals without requiring network-based attack vectors or complex exploitation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-42055 should focus on both immediate firmware updates and physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to affected devices. ASUSTek has released firmware updates to address this vulnerability, and users should immediately install the latest available firmware version to resolve the insecure permissions issue. Organizations should implement strict physical security controls for mobile devices, particularly those running vulnerable firmware versions, including secure storage when not in use, device tracking systems, and policies governing device handling in public or unsecured environments. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of firmware-level security controls and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499 which addresses unauthorized modification of firmware, highlighting the need for comprehensive security measures that protect against both network-based and physical attacks. Additionally, implementing secure boot mechanisms and firmware integrity verification processes can provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities in the future.