CVE-2022-40246: Arbitrary write vulnerability in SbPei module leads to arbitrary code execution during PEI phase.
A potential attacker can write one byte by arbitrary address at the time of the PEI phase (only during S3 resume boot mode) and influence the subsequent boot stages. This can lead to the mitigations bypassing, physical memory contents disclosure, discovery of any secrets from any Virtual Machines (VMs) and bypassing memory isolation and confidential computing boundaries. Additionally, an attacker can build a payload which can be injected into the SMRAM memory. This issue affects: Module name: SbPei SHA256: d827182e5f9b7a9ff0b9d3e232f7cfac43b5237e2681e11f005be627a49283a9 Module GUID: c1fbd624-27ea-40d1-aa48-94c3dc5c7e0d
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Compensating control
If the affected platform is booting in S3 resume boot mode, mitigate the SbPei arbitrary write and SMRAM payload injection risk by preventing or blocking S3 resume boot mode (e.g., disable/avoid S3 resume) so the vulnerable PEI-phase window cannot be reached.
- Compensating control
Apply physical and management-plane isolation controls to reduce the chance an attacker can gain access during boot (where they could inject/trigger the PEI-stage payload), since exploitation occurs during PEI phase (S3 resume boot mode) and can bypass memory isolation and confidential-computing boundaries.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CVE-2022-40246?
CVE-2022-40246 is a vulnerability that allows a potential attacker to write one byte to an arbitrary address during the PEI phase, only during S3 resume boot mode, which can lead to bypassing mitigations, disclosing physical memory contents, and discovering secrets from virtual machines.
What software is affected by CVE-2022-40246?
The Intel Nuc M15 Laptop Kit Lapbc510 Firmware version 0072 and Intel Nuc M15 Laptop Kit Lapbc710 Firmware version 0072 are affected by CVE-2022-40246.
What is the severity of CVE-2022-40246?
CVE-2022-40246 has a severity rating of 7.2 (high).
How can CVE-2022-40246 be exploited?
An attacker can exploit CVE-2022-40246 by writing one byte to an arbitrary address during the PEI phase, specifically during S3 resume boot mode.
Are there any references related to CVE-2022-40246?
Yes, you can find more information about CVE-2022-40246 at the AMI Security Center (https://www.ami.com/security-center/) and the Binarly Advisory (https://www.binarly.io/advisories/BRLY-2022-014).