CVE-2023-30738 in UEFI Firmware
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
An improper input validation in UEFI Firmware prior to Firmware update Oct-2023 Release in Galaxy Book, Galaxy Book Pro, Galaxy Book Pro 360 and Galaxy Book Odyssey allows local attacker to execute SMM memory corruption.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2023
This vulnerability represents a critical weakness in the UEFI firmware implementation affecting Samsung Galaxy Book devices including the Galaxy Book Pro, Galaxy Book Pro 360, Galaxy Book Odyssey, and Galaxy Book models. The flaw exists in the firmware validation mechanisms that govern how input is processed during the system boot process, specifically within the System Management Mode where privileged firmware operations occur. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of input parameters that are processed within the UEFI environment, creating an avenue for malicious manipulation of firmware components. The issue is particularly concerning because it affects devices that have not yet received the October 2023 firmware update, leaving them exposed to potential exploitation by local attackers who possess physical access to the affected systems.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of input data that flows into the UEFI firmware during boot operations. Attackers can craft specific inputs that bypass validation checks, ultimately leading to corruption of memory within the System Management Mode. This memory corruption represents a fundamental breach of the firmware security model, as SMM operates with the highest privilege level and maintains direct access to system hardware and memory. The vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary code within the SMM context, which can result in complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. The flaw aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and specifically relates to the dangerous combination of firmware-level memory corruption and privilege escalation in UEFI environments. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates below the operating system level, making detection and remediation extremely challenging.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. Local attackers with physical access can leverage this flaw to establish persistent access to affected devices, potentially maintaining control over the system for extended periods. The implications are severe for enterprise environments where these devices may be deployed in sensitive locations or used by personnel with access to confidential information. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security posture of the affected devices, as it undermines the integrity of the boot process and allows for undetected modifications to system firmware. This represents a significant concern for organizations relying on Samsung Galaxy Book devices for business operations, as the compromise could enable attackers to bypass traditional security controls and maintain long-term access to target systems. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which describes local privilege escalation, and T1542, which covers exploitation of system firmware.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention from system administrators and device owners. The primary and most effective remediation is to apply the firmware update released in October 2023, which addresses the input validation flaws in the UEFI implementation. Organizations should implement comprehensive firmware update management policies to ensure all affected devices receive security patches promptly. Additionally, physical security measures should be enhanced for devices running vulnerable firmware versions, including restricted access to system hardware and monitoring of physical access points. Security teams should also implement continuous monitoring for signs of system compromise, particularly focusing on unusual boot behavior or unexpected system modifications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current firmware versions and implementing robust update mechanisms for embedded systems. Organizations should consider deploying firmware integrity checking tools and establishing procedures for regular firmware assessment to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across their device inventory. The remediation process must also include verification that the firmware updates have been properly installed and that the system is operating with the corrected validation mechanisms in place.