Intel Microarchitectural Predictor State Vulnerability in intel-ucode Package
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2024-45332: Exposure of sensitive information caused by shared microarchitectural predictor state that influences transient execution in the indirect branch predictors for some Intel(R) Processors may allow an authenticated user to... Affects intel-ucode versions < 20250512-r0. Fixed in 20250512-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
The intel-ucode package is a critical component in Alpine Linux distributions, providing microcode updates for Intel processors. These updates are essential for enhancing processor performance and security. However, the package is susceptible to vulnerabilities that can expose sensitive information due to shared microarchitectural predictor states, particularly affecting the indirect branch predictors in certain Intel processors.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as ALPINE-CVE-2024-45332 stems from the exposure of sensitive information caused by shared microarchitectural predictor states. This issue allows an authenticated user to potentially enable information disclosure via local access. The vulnerability affects various versions of the intel-ucode package across multiple Alpine Linux versions, including v3.18 to v3.22. The ramifications of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, posing a significant risk to system integrity and user privacy.
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 workaround, users can limit access to the affected systems to trusted users only, thereby reducing the risk of information disclosure until the package is updated. Additionally, monitoring system access logs can help identify any unauthorized access attempts.
Conclusion
The intel-ucode package is critical for Intel processor performance and security in Alpine Linux. However, the identified vulnerability poses a risk of sensitive information exposure. Users are strongly encouraged to update to the patched version 20250512-r0 to mitigate this risk. For ongoing monitoring of vulnerabilities, consider using Vulert.
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FAQ
The vulnerability allows for potential information disclosure due to shared microarchitectural predictor states in Intel processors.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The vulnerability affects the intel-ucode package in Alpine Linux versions v3.18, v3.19, v3.20, v3.21, and v3.22.
If immediate updates are not possible, restrict access to the affected systems and monitor logs for any unauthorized access.
You can visit Vulert at https://vulert.com for real-time monitoring and alerts regarding open-source vulnerabilities in your software.
References
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