CVE-2020-8703 : Security Advisory and Response

Intel(R) CSME versions before 11.8.86, 11.12.86, 11.22.86, 12.0.81, 13.0.47, 13.30.17, 14.1.53, 14.5.32, and 15.0.22 are affected by an improper buffer restrictions vulnerability that could allow a privileged user to potentially escalate privileges via local access.

Understanding CVE-2020-8703

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Intel(R) CSME versions that could lead to privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2020-8703?

The vulnerability in Intel(R) CSME versions allows a privileged user to exploit improper buffer restrictions, potentially enabling escalation of privilege through local access.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8703

The vulnerability could be exploited by a privileged user to escalate their privileges, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8703

This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper buffer restrictions in a subsystem within Intel(R) CSME versions, enabling a privileged user to escalate their privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Intel(R) CSME versions
Versions Affected: Before 11.8.86, 11.12.86, 11.22.86, 12.0.81, 13.0.47, 13.30.17, 14.1.53, 14.5.32, and 15.0.22

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows a privileged user to exploit buffer restrictions in Intel(R) CSME versions, potentially leading to privilege escalation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-8703 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Intel for the affected versions.
Monitor for any unauthorized access or privilege escalation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and firmware to prevent vulnerabilities.
Implement strong access controls and least privilege principles to limit user permissions.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates from Intel and apply them promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.