CVE-2020-5361 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-5361 affecting select Dell Client platforms. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps for this BIOS password reset vulnerability.
Dell BIOS Password Reset Vulnerability
Understanding CVE-2020-5361
What is CVE-2020-5361?
CVE-2020-5361 is a vulnerability affecting select Dell Client Commercial and Consumer platforms that support a BIOS password reset capability. Unauthorized password generation tools can be used by attackers to reset BIOS passwords and BIOS-managed Hard Disk Drive (HDD) passwords.
The Impact of CVE-2020-5361
This vulnerability could allow an unauthenticated attacker with physical access to bypass security restrictions for BIOS Setup configuration, HDD access, and BIOS pre-boot authentication.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-5361
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability stems from a weak password recovery mechanism for forgotten passwords on Dell platforms.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: CPG BIOS
- Vendor: Dell
- Versions: All
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Physical
- Privileges Required: None
- Scope: Changed
- User Interaction: None
- CVSS Base Score: 5.1 (Medium)
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Dell recommends updating BIOS versions to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Implement strong physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and update BIOS versions on affected systems.
- Educate users on secure password practices and physical security measures.
Patching and Updates
- Dell may release patches or updates to address this vulnerability.