CVE-2023-52080 in NF5280M6 UEFI Firmware
Summary
by MITRE • 04/29/2024
IEIT NF5280M6 UEFI firmware through 8.4 has a pool overflow vulnerability, caused by improper use of the gRT->GetVariable() function. Attackers with access to local NVRAM variables can exploit this by modifying these variables on SPI Flash, resulting in memory data being tampered with. When critical data in memory data is tampered with,a crash may occur.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2024
The CVE-2023-52080 vulnerability affects the IEIT NF5280M6 server hardware platform and represents a critical memory corruption flaw within the UEFI firmware implementation. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of the gRT->GetVariable() function call within the firmware runtime services, creating a buffer overflow condition that can be exploited through manipulation of non-volatile RAM variables. The issue specifically manifests when the firmware processes variable data retrieved from the SPI flash storage medium, where attackers can craft malicious inputs that exceed the allocated buffer space. The vulnerability exists at the intersection of firmware security and memory management, where inadequate bounds checking allows for arbitrary data overwrite operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires physical access to the target system and the ability to modify NVRAM variables stored in the SPI flash memory. Attackers can leverage this access to craft malicious variable modifications that trigger the buffer overflow condition during firmware execution. The improper use of the GetVariable() function creates a scenario where the firmware fails to validate the length of retrieved variable data against the allocated buffer size, leading to potential memory corruption. This flaw aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of insufficient input validation in firmware contexts where runtime variables are processed without adequate boundary checks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability, potentially enabling attackers to achieve persistent system compromise or execute arbitrary code within the firmware environment. When memory data becomes corrupted due to the buffer overflow, the system may experience unexpected crashes or unpredictable behavior that could be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks. The nature of UEFI firmware execution means that successful exploitation could allow attackers to modify critical system parameters, potentially enabling bootkits or rootkits that persist across system reboots. This vulnerability represents a significant concern for enterprise environments where physical security controls may be insufficient, as it allows for attacks that bypass traditional operating system security mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-52080 should focus on both immediate firmware updates and enhanced physical security controls. System administrators must prioritize applying the latest firmware updates from IEIT that address this specific buffer overflow condition in the gRT->GetVariable() implementation. Additionally, implementing proper SPI flash write protection mechanisms and monitoring for unauthorized NVRAM modifications can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following ATT&CK framework techniques related to firmware attacks and rootkit development, specifically targeting T1542.001 for rootkits and T1542.003 for bootkits. Organizations should also consider implementing hardware security modules or trusted platform modules that can provide additional verification of firmware integrity and prevent unauthorized modifications to critical system variables. Physical security measures including restricted access to server environments and proper key management for firmware updates are essential complementary controls that address the attack surface exposed by this vulnerability.