CVE-2020-8739 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Intel BIOS platform sample code for some Intel(R) Processors may allow escalation of privilege via local access.

Understanding CVE-2020-8739

The vulnerability in Intel BIOS platform sample code for certain Intel(R) Processors could lead to privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2020-8739?

The use of a potentially dangerous function in the Intel BIOS platform sample code for specific Intel(R) Processors may enable an authenticated user to escalate privileges locally.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8739

This vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain escalated privileges on affected systems, posing a significant security risk.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8739

The technical aspects of the CVE-2020-8739 vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the use of a risky function in the Intel BIOS platform sample code, creating a pathway for privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Intel BIOS platform sample code for some Intel(R) Processors
Version: See references

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated user with local access to potentially elevate their privileges on the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-8739, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches or updates provided by Intel to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unauthorized privilege escalation attempts on the system.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update BIOS and firmware to ensure the latest security patches are in place.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access and minimize the impact of potential privilege escalation.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Intel and promptly apply any recommended patches or fixes.