CVE-2023-2993 in System X
Summary
by MITRE • 06/26/2023
A valid, authenticated user with limited privileges may be able to use specifically crafted web management server API calls to execute a limited number of commands on SMM v1, SMM v2, and FPC that the user does not normally have sufficient privileges to execute.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/18/2023
This vulnerability represents a significant privilege escalation flaw within the system management subsystems of affected devices. The issue manifests when an authenticated user with limited privileges can manipulate specifically crafted API calls to the web management server interface, thereby executing commands that would normally be restricted to higher privilege levels. The vulnerability affects multiple system management modules including SMM v1, SMM v2, and FPC components, indicating a widespread impact across different management interfaces. This type of vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a critical failure in access control mechanisms within the system's management infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of API call structures that should enforce strict privilege boundaries. Attackers can craft specific requests that bypass normal authorization checks, allowing execution of restricted commands through the web management interface. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where API endpoints fail to properly validate user privileges for certain operations. This flaw essentially creates a backdoor path through which authenticated users can escalate their privileges without requiring additional authentication credentials or elevated access rights. The specific nature of the crafted API calls suggests that the vulnerability stems from improper input validation or insufficient privilege checking within the API processing logic.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it potentially allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on system management components that are typically protected from unauthorized access. This capability could enable attackers to modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or potentially compromise the entire management infrastructure. The affected SMM v1, SMM v2, and FPC components are critical system management interfaces that control fundamental system operations, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous. The ability to execute limited commands through these interfaces could provide attackers with insights into system architecture, facilitate further exploitation, or enable the deployment of additional malicious payloads within the management environment.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust API input validation and privilege enforcement mechanisms. Organizations should immediately apply vendor-provided patches or updates that address the specific API call handling issues. Network segmentation and monitoring of management interface communications can help detect anomalous API usage patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Access controls should be reviewed and strengthened to ensure that only authorized users can access management interfaces, with additional authentication measures such as multi-factor authentication recommended for critical management functions. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control issues, and could be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1068 for local privilege escalation, highlighting the need for comprehensive security controls across multiple attack surface areas.