CVE-2023-28073 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record was published on June 23, 2023, by Dell. It involves an improper authentication vulnerability found in Dell BIOS, which could be exploited by a locally authenticated malicious user to elevate privileges on the system.

Understanding CVE-2023-28073

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-28073, including what it is, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-28073?

CVE-2023-28073 is a vulnerability in Dell BIOS that allows a malicious user with local authentication to bypass certain authentication mechanisms and gain elevated privileges on the system. This could lead to unauthorized access and potential compromise of sensitive information.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28073

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as high, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.2. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system are all at risk, highlighting the severity of this issue.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28073

Understanding the technical aspects of CVE-2023-28073 is crucial for effectively addressing and mitigating this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Dell BIOS stems from improper authentication measures, which can be exploited by a locally authenticated attacker to escalate their privileges on the system. This creates a significant security risk for affected devices.

Affected Systems and Versions

The impacted product is CPG BIOS by Dell, specifically version 1.13.2. The platforms affected include Latitude 5530 and Precision 3570 devices running this vulnerable BIOS version.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a malicious user who already has local authentication on the system. By bypassing specific authentication mechanisms, the attacker can elevate their privileges and potentially carry out further attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-28073 requires immediate action to mitigate the risk it poses and prevent any potential unauthorized access or data compromise.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and organizations should update the affected Dell BIOS version to a secure release provided by Dell. Implementing strong password policies and limiting local user access can also help reduce the likelihood of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security audits, penetration testing, and employee cybersecurity training can enhance overall security posture and help in identifying vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.

Patching and Updates

Dell has released an advisory detailing the vulnerability and providing guidance on updating BIOS to mitigate CVE-2023-28073. It is essential for affected users to apply these patches promptly to secure their systems against potential threats.