CVE-2019-13991 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Arduino-based embedded systems pre-Rev3 are vulnerable to remote attacks exploiting LED photosensitivity via laser.

Understanding CVE-2019-13991

Due to the sensitivity of LEDs to laser, remote hackers can exploit the capability of sending data to LEDs via GPIO pins in Arduino-based embedded systems that predate Rev3.

What is CVE-2019-13991?

This CVE describes a vulnerability in Arduino-based embedded systems that allows remote attackers to send data to LEDs using a laser due to LED photosensitivity.

The Impact of CVE-2019-13991

Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to send unauthorized data to LEDs connected to GPIO pins.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-13991

Arduino-based embedded systems before Rev3 are susceptible to this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Remote attackers can use a laser to send data to LEDs connected to GPIO pins.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit LED photosensitivity to send data to LEDs via GPIO pins using a laser.

Mitigation and Prevention

Implementing security measures is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2019-13991.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to Arduino-based embedded systems post-Rev3 to avoid this vulnerability.
Implement physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to GPIO pins.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and software to patch vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Arduino to address this vulnerability.