CVE-2020-5379 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Dell Inspiron 7352 BIOS versions prior to A12 contain a UEFI BIOS Boot Services overwrite vulnerability that could allow a local attacker to execute arbitrary code in System Management Mode (SMM).

Understanding CVE-2020-5379

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Dell's CPG BIOS affecting certain versions of Dell Inspiron 7352.

What is CVE-2020-5379?

The vulnerability in Dell Inspiron 7352 BIOS versions before A12 allows a local attacker to overwrite the EFI_BOOT_SERVICES structure, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code in System Management Mode (SMM).

The Impact of CVE-2020-5379

The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.8, indicating a medium severity issue with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack complexity is low, and it requires physical access to the device.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5379

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a UEFI BIOS Boot Services overwrite issue in Dell Inspiron 7352 BIOS versions before A12, enabling unauthorized code execution in SMM.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: CPG BIOS
Vendor: Dell
Versions Affected: Less than A12
Version Type: Custom

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a local attacker with access to system memory to overwrite the EFI_BOOT_SERVICES structure, allowing the execution of arbitrary code in SMM.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-5379, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the BIOS to version A12 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Restrict physical access to the device to prevent unauthorized exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and apply security updates to all system components.
Implement strict access controls and user permissions to limit system access.

Patching and Updates

Dell has released BIOS version A12 to address this vulnerability. Ensure timely installation of this update to secure the system.