CVE-2023-39902 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2023-39902, a critical vulnerability in U-Boot Secondary Program Loader affecting NXP i.MX 8M processors, allowing unauthorized software execution and privilege escalation.
A software vulnerability has been identified in the U-Boot Secondary Program Loader (SPL) before 2023.07 on select NXP i.MX 8M family processors. This vulnerability allows unauthenticated software to execute on the target, leading to privilege escalation.
Understanding CVE-2023-39902
This section provides an in-depth look into the CVE-2023-39902 vulnerability.
What is CVE-2023-39902?
CVE-2023-39902 is a security flaw in the U-Boot Secondary Program Loader (SPL) that affects select NXP i.MX 8M family processors. The vulnerability allows an attacker to overwrite SPL memory using a crafted Flattened Image Tree (FIT) format structure, leading to unauthorized software execution and privilege escalation.
The Impact of CVE-2023-39902
The impact of CVE-2023-39902 is significant as it enables unauthenticated software to run on the target system, potentially leading to an attacker gaining elevated privileges.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-39902
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE-2023-39902 vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a flaw in the U-Boot SPL, allowing the unauthorized execution of software on affected NXP i.MX 8M family processors.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability affects i.MX 8M, i.MX 8M Mini, i.MX 8M Nano, and i.MX 8M Plus processors running U-Boot SPL versions prior to 2023.07.
Exploitation Mechanism
By leveraging a specially crafted FIT structure, an attacker can overwrite SPL memory and execute unauthenticated software, leading to privilege escalation.
Mitigation and Prevention
This section outlines steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-39902.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update the U-Boot SPL to a version beyond 2023.07 to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing secure boot mechanisms and regularly updating firmware can help prevent similar security incidents.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates from NXP and promptly apply patches to address known vulnerabilities.