CVE-2018-12192

Vulnerability

The vulnerability resides in the Kernel subsystem of Intel CSME (Converged Security and Management Engine) versions before 11.8.60, 11.11.60, 11.22.60 or 12.0.20, and Intel Server Platform Services (SPS) versions before SPS_E5_04.00.04.393.0 [1]. A logic bug in the MEBx (Management Engine BIOS Extension) authentication flow allows an unauthenticated user to potentially bypass authentication [1].

Exploitation

An attacker must have physical access to the affected system [1]. The attacker can exploit the logic bug to bypass MEBx authentication without providing valid credentials. The exact sequence of steps is not detailed in the available references, but physical access is the key prerequisite [1].

Impact

Successful exploitation allows the attacker to bypass MEBx authentication. MEBx provides low-level management functions; bypassing authentication could allow the attacker to change firmware settings or execute other privileged management operations [1]. The CVSS score and confidentiality/integrity/availability ratings are not provided in the cited reference, but the advisory classifies this as an authentication bypass issue [1].

Mitigation

Intel has released fixed versions: CSME 11.8.60, 11.11.60, 11.22.60, 12.0.20 or later, and SPS SPS_E5_04.00.04.393.0 or later [1]. Users should update their firmware to the patched version. No workaround is mentioned; physical access controls can limit the attack surface but do not address the underlying bug [1].