CVE-2022-30774 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2022-30774, a vulnerability related to DMA attacks on the parameter buffer used by the PnpSmm driver.

Understanding CVE-2022-30774

CVE-2022-30774 involves DMA attacks on the parameter buffer by the PnpSmm driver, leading to the alteration of contents after parameter values have been checked but before they are used. It is classified as a Time-of-Check Time-of-Use (TOCTOU) attack.

What is CVE-2022-30774?

CVE-2022-30774 refers to a security vulnerability discovered by Insyde engineering during a security review. The issue allows threat actors to modify parameter contents after validation, potentially leading to unauthorized changes in system behavior.

The Impact of CVE-2022-30774

This vulnerability can be exploited to manipulate parameter values in the PnpSmm driver, potentially causing system instability, unauthorized data modification, or even system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-30774

The vulnerability was addressed in Kernel versions 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, and 5.5 by implementing specific fixes to prevent DMA attacks on the parameter buffer by the PnpSmm driver.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows attackers to interfere with the parameter buffer post-validation, leading to potential security breaches and unauthorized system modifications.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts systems running Kernel versions 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, and 5.5 that utilize the PnpSmm driver.

Exploitation Mechanism

Threat actors can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating parameter values during the time window between validation and usage, potentially causing system compromise.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-30774, immediate steps must be taken to mitigate the risks associated with DMA attacks on the parameter buffer.

Immediate Steps to Take

System administrators should apply the Kernel updates provided by the respective software vendors to secure systems against this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices and regularly updating systems can help prevent similar DMA attack vectors and enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Kernel versions 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, and 5.5 are updated with the recommended fixes to eliminate the vulnerability and protect systems from potential exploitation.