CVE-2020-5388 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-5388 affecting Dell Inspiron 15 7579 2-in-1 BIOS versions < 1.31.0. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps for this vulnerability.
Dell Inspiron 15 7579 2-in-1 BIOS versions prior to 1.31.0 contain an Improper SMM communication buffer verification vulnerability that could allow a local authenticated malicious user to execute arbitrary code in SMRAM.
Understanding CVE-2020-5388
This CVE involves a vulnerability in Dell's CPG BIOS affecting certain versions of the Dell Inspiron 15 7579 2-in-1 laptop.
What is CVE-2020-5388?
The vulnerability in Dell's BIOS allows a local authenticated attacker to potentially execute arbitrary code in SMRAM by exploiting an Improper SMM communication buffer verification issue.
The Impact of CVE-2020-5388
- CVSS Base Score: 6.9 (Medium Severity)
- Attack Vector: Physical
- Attack Complexity: High
- Privileges Required: High
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- Scope: Changed
- Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:P/AC:H/PR:H/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H
Technical Details of CVE-2020-5388
This section provides more in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from an Improper SMM communication buffer verification issue in Dell's CPG BIOS.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: CPG BIOS
- Vendor: Dell
- Affected Version: < 1.31.0 (unspecified, custom version)
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by a local authenticated malicious user using an SMI to gain arbitrary code execution in SMRAM.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate action and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the BIOS to version 1.31.0 or later.
- Monitor and restrict access to BIOS settings.
- Implement strong authentication mechanisms.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update system firmware and software.
- Conduct security training for users on safe computing practices.
Patching and Updates
- Dell has released BIOS version 1.31.0 to address this vulnerability. Ensure all affected systems are updated to this patched version.