CVE-2020-8745 : What You Need to Know

Insufficient control flow management in subsystem for Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE versions before specified versions may allow an unauthenticated user to enable privilege escalation via physical access.

Understanding CVE-2020-8745

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE that could lead to privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2020-8745?

CVE-2020-8745 pertains to a lack of control flow management in Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE versions before specific versions, potentially enabling unauthorized users to escalate privileges through physical access.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8745

The vulnerability could allow an unauthenticated individual to exploit the system, leading to an escalation of privileges, posing a significant security risk.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8745

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from insufficient control flow management in Intel(R) CSME and Intel(R) TXE versions before certain specified versions.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: Intel(R) CSME, Intel(R) TXE
Versions: Intel(R) CSME versions before 11.8.80, 11.12.80, 11.22.80, 12.0.70, 13.0.40, 13.30.10, 14.0.45, and 14.5.25; Intel(R) TXE versions before 3.1.80 and 4.0.30

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability may be exploited by an unauthenticated user with physical access to the affected systems, potentially enabling privilege escalation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-8745 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Intel to address the vulnerability promptly.
Implement strict access controls to limit physical access to vulnerable systems.
Monitor and restrict unauthorized activities on critical systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and firmware to prevent vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and mitigate potential risks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Intel and other relevant sources.
Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches to safeguard systems.