CVE-2019-0168 : Security Advisory and Response

Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE subsystems are affected by a vulnerability that could lead to information disclosure through local access. Versions up to 11.8.70, 12.0.45, and 13.0.10 for CSME, and up to 3.1.70 and 4.0.20 for TXE are vulnerable.

Understanding CVE-2019-0168

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE subsystems that could allow a privileged user to disclose information through local access.

What is CVE-2019-0168?

The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation in the Intel(R) CSME subsystem up to versions 11.8.70, 12.0.45, and 13.0.10, as well as in Intel(R) TXE up to versions 3.1.70 and 4.0.20 when accessed by a privileged user.

The Impact of CVE-2019-0168

The vulnerability may result in information disclosure through local access, potentially enabling a privileged user to access sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-0168

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Insufficient input validation in Intel(R) CSME versions 11.8.70, 12.0.45, and 13.0.10, and Intel(R) TXE versions 3.1.70 and 4.0.20 may allow a privileged user to enable information disclosure via local access.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: Intel(R) CSME, Intel(R) TXE
Versions: Up to 11.8.70, 12.0.45, and 13.0.10 for CSME, and up to 3.1.70 and 4.0.20 for TXE

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a privileged user with local access to potentially disclose sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-0168 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Intel to address the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict privileged user access to the affected subsystems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE to prevent security vulnerabilities.
Implement strong access controls and user permissions to limit exposure to potential exploits.
Conduct regular security audits and assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE are updated with the latest patches and security updates to mitigate the risk of information disclosure.