CVE-2022-26045 in XMM 7560
Summary
by MITRE • 11/11/2022
Improper buffer restrictions in some Intel(R) XMM(TM) 7560 Modem software before version M2_7560_R_01.2146.00 may allow a privileged user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via physical access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-26045 represents a critical security flaw within Intel's XMM 7560 modem software ecosystem, specifically affecting versions prior to M2_7560_R_01. This issue resides in the modem's firmware implementation and manifests as improper buffer restrictions that create potential attack vectors for privilege escalation. The vulnerability requires physical access to the target system, which significantly limits its exposure but does not eliminate the risk entirely, particularly in environments where unauthorized physical access is possible. The affected modem software operates at a low level within the system architecture, making it a critical component for network connectivity and communication functions.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate buffer management within the modem's software implementation, creating conditions where a privileged user with physical access could exploit memory handling mechanisms to execute code with elevated privileges. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes "Stack-based Buffer Overflow" conditions, and CWE-122, which covers "Heap-based Buffer Overflow" scenarios. The buffer restriction issues likely involve insufficient bounds checking during memory allocation and data handling processes within the modem's communication protocols. Attackers could potentially manipulate memory regions through crafted input data or command sequences that bypass normal security controls, leading to unauthorized privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it affects the fundamental security posture of devices utilizing the affected modem software. Systems equipped with Intel XMM 7560 modems may become vulnerable to persistent access by attackers who gain physical access to the device, potentially compromising network communications, data integrity, and overall system security. The vulnerability's requirement for physical access means that traditional network-based defenses may not prevent exploitation, though it does not eliminate the need for comprehensive security measures. Organizations relying on these modems for critical communications or mobile connectivity face potential risks including data breaches, unauthorized network access, and system compromise that could affect enterprise networks and sensitive operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-26045 primarily focus on updating the modem software to version M2_7560_R_01 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer restriction issues. System administrators should prioritize applying these updates across all affected devices, particularly those in high-security environments or critical infrastructure. Physical security measures remain crucial, including implementing robust access controls, monitoring systems for unauthorized physical access, and establishing procedures for device security verification. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of supply chain security and firmware integrity checking, as it demonstrates how low-level hardware components can create persistent security risks. Organizations should consider implementing continuous monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous behavior patterns consistent with privilege escalation attempts, while also adhering to ATT&CK framework principles that emphasize the importance of defending against privilege escalation techniques through layered security approaches.