CVE-2020-13595 : What You Need to Know

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) controller implementation in Espressif ESP-IDF 4.0 through 4.2 for ESP32 devices has a vulnerability that can be exploited by an attacker within radio range. This vulnerability triggers a reachable assertion on the host stack, leading to the disabling of the target's BLE stack.

Understanding CVE-2020-13595

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the BLE controller implementation in Espressif ESP-IDF 4.0 through 4.2 for ESP32 devices.

What is CVE-2020-13595?

The vulnerability in the BLE controller implementation allows an attacker within radio range to trigger a reachable assertion on the host stack by sending a crafted sequence of BLE packets. This assertion disables the target's BLE stack.

The Impact of CVE-2020-13595

Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to a denial of service (DoS) condition by disabling the BLE stack on the target device, impacting its Bluetooth Low Energy functionality.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-13595

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the BLE controller implementation in Espressif ESP-IDF 4.0 through 4.2 triggers a reachable assertion on the host stack when receiving a packet with an MIC failure, allowing an attacker to disable the target's BLE stack.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems: Espressif ESP-IDF 4.0 through 4.2
Versions: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker within radio range can exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted sequence of BLE packets, triggering the reachable assertion on the host stack and disabling the target's BLE stack.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-13595 requires immediate steps and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Implement network segmentation to isolate BLE devices from critical systems.
Monitor BLE traffic for anomalies and unexpected behavior.
Apply vendor-supplied patches and updates promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Espressif may release patches or updates to address this vulnerability. Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches as soon as they are available.