CVE-2023-28738 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record pertains to an improper input validation vulnerability in some Intel NUC BIOS firmware versions before JY0070, which may allow a privileged user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.

Understanding CVE-2023-28738

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-28738, including what it is, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-28738?

The CVE-2023-28738 vulnerability involves improper input validation in certain Intel NUC BIOS firmware versions, posing a potential risk of privilege escalation for a privileged user with local access.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28738

The impact of CVE-2023-28738 is rated as HIGH based on the CVSS v3.1 scoring system. This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker with high privileges to elevate their access level, potentially leading to unauthorized system control or data compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28738

This section will provide a deeper understanding of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Intel NUC BIOS firmware before version JY0070 stems from inadequate input validation, which could be leveraged by a privileged user to escalate their privileges locally.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Intel NUC BIOS firmware versions before JY0070. Systems running these specific firmware versions are at risk of exploitation by malicious actors seeking to gain escalated privileges.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the improper input validation in affected Intel NUC BIOS firmware versions, a privileged user could manipulate the system to escalate their privileges locally, potentially leading to unauthorized actions on the device.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we will address the necessary steps to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-28738 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the vulnerability, users should consider implementing security best practices such as restricting access to critical systems, monitoring for unusual activities, and applying relevant patches or updates promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, organizations should prioritize proactive security measures, including regular security assessments, employee training on best security practices, and maintaining up-to-date firmware and software across all systems.

Patching and Updates

Intel has likely released patches or firmware updates to address the CVE-2023-28738 vulnerability in affected Intel NUC BIOS firmware versions. Users are strongly advised to apply these patches as soon as possible to safeguard their systems against potential exploitation.