CVE-2017-5703 : Security Advisory and Response

Intel SPI Flash Configuration Vulnerability

Understanding CVE-2017-5703

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the setup of SPI Flash in various Intel platforms, potentially allowing a local attacker to manipulate the SPI flash functionality, leading to a Denial of Service (DoS) attack.

What is CVE-2017-5703?

The vulnerability in the SPI Flash configuration on Intel platforms enables an attacker in proximity to alter the flash's behavior, posing a risk of DoS.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5703

The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in a Denial of Service attack, disrupting the normal operation of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5703

Vulnerability Description

The misconfiguration of SPI Flash on Intel platforms allows a nearby attacker to modify its functionality, potentially causing a DoS.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products affected: Intel 6th and 7th generation Core Processors, Xeon Scalable Processors, Xeon Processor E3 v5 and v6 Family, and Atom Processor C Series.
All versions of the mentioned products are susceptible to this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker in close proximity to the targeted system, enabling them to tamper with the SPI Flash configuration.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches and updates provided by Intel to address the vulnerability.
Implement strict physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit SPI Flash configurations for any unauthorized changes.
Educate personnel on security best practices to prevent physical access attacks.

Patching and Updates

Intel has released patches to mitigate the vulnerability; ensure timely installation of these updates to secure the systems.