Sensitive Information Disclosure in Intel Microarchitectural Structures - intel-ucode and xen Packages
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2024-28956: Exposure of Sensitive Information in Shared Microarchitectural Structures during Transient Execution for some Intel(R) Processors may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable information disclosure via local acc... Affects intel-ucode versions < 20250512-r0. Fixed in 20250512-r0. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The intel-ucode package provides microcode updates for Intel processors, enhancing system stability and performance. The xen package is a hypervisor that allows multiple operating systems to run concurrently on a host machine. Both packages are critical in managing system resources and ensuring optimal performance. However, they are vulnerable to a specific issue that can lead to information disclosure.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as ALPINE-CVE-2024-28956, arises from the exposure of sensitive information in shared microarchitectural structures during transient execution in certain Intel processors. This flaw allows an authenticated user to potentially access sensitive data through local access, posing significant risks to system security and user privacy. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the intel-ucode and xen packages across various Alpine Linux releases.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
20250512-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade intel-ucodeTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, consider limiting access to the affected systems and monitoring for any unusual activity. Additionally, ensure that only trusted users have access to the system to mitigate potential risks while waiting for the patch.
Conclusion
The ALPINE-CVE-2024-28956 vulnerability poses a significant risk to systems using the intel-ucode and xen packages in Alpine Linux. It is crucial to update to the patched versions to safeguard against potential information disclosure. Users are encouraged to monitor their systems and utilize tools like Vulert for real-time vulnerability alerts.
See every vulnerability recorded for intel-ucode →
FAQ
It is a vulnerability that allows sensitive information to be disclosed through transient execution in certain Intel processors.
The intel-ucode and xen packages in Alpine Linux versions 3.18 to 3.22 are affected.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
Implement access controls and monitor system activity to reduce the risk of exploitation until you can apply the patch.
Detailed information can be found in the vulnerability report at https://storage.googleapis.com/cve-osv-conversion/alpine/ALPINE-CVE-2024-28956.json.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for intel-ucode.
