CVE-2019-11091 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

CVE-2019-11091, also known as Microarchitectural Data Sampling Uncacheable Memory (MDSUM), poses a potential information disclosure risk through side channels on certain microprocessors utilizing speculative execution.

Understanding CVE-2019-11091

What is CVE-2019-11091?

CVE-2019-11091 involves the exploitation of speculative execution in specific microprocessors, potentially leading to information disclosure through uncacheable memory side channels, exploitable by authenticated local users.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11091

The vulnerability allows an authenticated local user to exploit uncacheable memory on affected microprocessors, potentially enabling information disclosure through side channels.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11091

Vulnerability Description

Utilization of speculative execution in certain microprocessors
Potential for information disclosure through uncacheable memory side channels

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Central Processing Units (CPUs)
Vendor: Intel Corporation
Impacted versions: A list of affected products can be found here

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated local user through uncacheable memory on affected microprocessors.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply microcode updates provided by Intel
Implement security patches from relevant vendors

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update system firmware and software
Monitor for security advisories and apply patches promptly

Patching and Updates

Refer to vendor-specific security advisories for patching guidance