CVE-2023-44298 : Security Advisory and Response

Dell PowerEdge platforms 16G Intel E5 BIOS and Dell Precision BIOS, version 1.4.4, contain an active debug code security vulnerability that could be exploited by an unauthenticated physical attacker. This could lead to information tampering, code execution, and denial of service.

Understanding CVE-2023-44298

This section provides an overview of CVE-2023-44298.

What is CVE-2023-44298?

CVE-2023-44298 is a security vulnerability found in Dell PowerEdge platforms 16G Intel E5 BIOS and Dell Precision BIOS, version 1.4.4. It allows unauthenticated physical attackers to exploit the debug code, resulting in severe consequences such as information tampering and code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2023-44298

The impact of CVE-2023-44298 includes the potential for information tampering, code execution, and denial of service attacks. These vulnerabilities pose a risk to the integrity and security of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-44298

Here are the technical details related to CVE-2023-44298.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from active debug code present in Dell PowerEdge platforms 16G Intel E5 BIOS and Dell Precision BIOS, version 1.4.4. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability without authentication, potentially leading to information tampering, code execution, and denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include PowerEdge R660, PowerEdge R760, PowerEdge C6620, PowerEdge MX760c, PowerEdge R860, PowerEdge R960, PowerEdge HS5610, PowerEdge HS5620, PowerEdge R660xs, PowerEdge R760xs, PowerEdge R760xd2, PowerEdge T560, and PowerEdge R760xa. The specific affected version is 1.4.4 of PowerEdge BIOS.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability requires physical access to the affected systems. An unauthenticated attacker could exploit the debug code to manipulate information, execute unauthorized code, or disrupt services.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate action to address CVE-2023-44298 and prevent potential security breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the security update provided by Dell to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual activities on the affected systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update BIOS and firmware to ensure security patches are applied promptly.
Implement physical security measures to restrict unauthorized access to the systems.

Patching and Updates

Refer to Dell's security advisory for detailed instructions on updating the affected systems and mitigating the CVE-2023-44298 vulnerability.