CVE-2019-0098 : Security Advisory and Response

An unauthenticated user with physical access could exploit a logic bug vulnerability in Intel(R) Converged Security & Management Engine (CSME) and Intel(R) Trusted Execution Engine Interface (TXE) to achieve privilege escalation.

Understanding CVE-2019-0098

This CVE involves a logic bug vulnerability in subsystems for Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE, potentially enabling privilege escalation through physical access.

What is CVE-2019-0098?

CVE-2019-0098 is a security vulnerability that allows an unauthenticated user physical access to exploit a logic bug in Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE, leading to privilege escalation.

The Impact of CVE-2019-0098

The vulnerability could result in unauthorized users gaining escalated privileges on affected systems, posing a significant security risk.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-0098

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

An unauthenticated user with physical access can exploit a logic bug in Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE to escalate privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: Intel(R) Converged Security & Management Engine (CSME), Intel(R) Trusted Execution Engine Interface (TXE)
Versions Affected: Before Intel(R) CSME 12.0.35 and Intel(R) TXE 3.1.65, 4.0.15

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows unauthorized users to achieve privilege escalation by exploiting the logic bug in Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-0098 is crucial for maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Intel to fix the vulnerability.
Restrict physical access to systems to prevent unauthorized exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.
Regularly monitor and update system firmware and software.

Patching and Updates

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