Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in Intel Microcode: CVE-2024-21820
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2024-21820: Incorrect default permissions in some Intel(R) Xeon(R) processor memory controller configurations when using Intel(R) SGX may allow a privileged user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access. Affects intel-microcode versions 1.20130906.1ubuntu2 – 3.20210608.0ubuntu0.14.04.1+esm1. No fix is published. 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
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
Background
Intel Microcode is a critical component that provides updates to the processor's firmware, enhancing performance and security. It is essential for maintaining the stability and security of Intel processors, particularly in server environments. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-21820 affects various versions of Intel Microcode across multiple Ubuntu LTS releases, potentially allowing unauthorized privilege escalation.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from incorrect default permissions in certain Intel Xeon processor memory controller configurations when utilizing Intel SGX (Software Guard Extensions). This flaw could enable a privileged user to escalate their privileges through local access, posing a significant security risk. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.2, indicating a high severity level that necessitates immediate attention.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can limit local access to the affected systems and monitor user permissions closely until the patch is applied. Additionally, consider disabling Intel SGX if it is not required for your applications.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-21820 is a significant vulnerability affecting Intel Microcode across multiple Ubuntu LTS versions, allowing for potential privilege escalation. Users are strongly advised to update their systems to the latest patched versions to mitigate risks. Temporary workarounds can be employed until the patch is applied.
See every vulnerability recorded for intel-microcode →
FAQ
CVE-2024-21820 is a vulnerability in Intel Microcode that allows a privileged user to escalate their privileges due to incorrect default permissions in memory controller configurations.
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 main risk is unauthorized privilege escalation, which could allow attackers to gain higher access levels and potentially compromise the entire system.
Yes, patched versions of the Intel Microcode are available for various Ubuntu LTS releases. Users should update to the latest version to mitigate the risk.
If immediate patching is not possible, implement temporary workarounds such as limiting local access and monitoring user permissions closely.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for intel-microcode.
Habilume
Habit tracker with a companion that grows with you
Complete habits, earn Lume Points, and watch your Lume grow as you stay consistent.
