CVE-2021-26331:AMD System Management Unit (SMU) Mailbox Entry Manipulation Vulnerability

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Description Preview

A vulnerability in AMD System Management Unit (SMU) allows malicious users to manipulate mailbox entries, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. This security flaw could enable attackers with certain privileges to execute unauthorized code, compromising system security.

Overview

The vulnerability (CVE-2021-26331) affects the AMD System Management Unit (SMU), which is responsible for various power management and system control functions in AMD processors. The issue stems from insufficient validation of mailbox entries, which are communication channels between software and the SMU. A malicious actor with appropriate access could manipulate these mailbox entries to potentially execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability represents a significant security risk as it could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges or execute unauthorized operations on affected systems.

Remediation

To address this vulnerability, system administrators and users should:

  1. Apply firmware updates provided by AMD or system vendors as soon as they become available
  2. Ensure BIOS/UEFI is updated to the latest version that contains the security patches
  3. Follow AMD's security advisory (AMD-SB-1021) for specific guidance on affected products
  4. Implement proper access controls to limit who can interact with system management functions
  5. Monitor systems for unusual activity that might indicate exploitation attempts

References

  1. AMD Security Bulletin: https://www.amd.com/en/corporate/product-security/bulletin/amd-sb-1021
  2. CVE Details: CVE-2021-26331
  3. AMD Product Security: https://www.amd.com/en/corporate/product-security

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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