Protect Your Intel-based Platforms from the AMT Vulnerability

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is the AMT vulnerability?
3. How does AMT work?
4. Impact and risks of the AMT vulnerability
5. Vulnerable platforms and affected vendors
6. Protection and patching
7. Network scanning for vulnerable appliances
8. Firewall configuration to mitigate the vulnerability
9. Segmentation and internal firewalling
10. Conclusion

Introduction

Welcome to today's edition of Card's Daily Security Bites. In this article, we will be discussing the Intel AMT vulnerability, also known as the Silent Bob vulnerability. This vulnerability has recently been discovered in certain Intel processors and poses a significant risk to affected platforms.

What is the AMT vulnerability?

The AMT vulnerability refers to a security flaw in the Active Management Technology (AMT) firmware Present in specific Intel server processors. This firmware allows business administrators to remotely manage Intel desktops, even when they are powered off. However, researchers have found a way to exploit this feature and gain unauthorized access to the affected CPUs.

How does AMT work?

AMT enables remote administrators to directly manage Intel CPUs over a network on specific ports. Usually, authentication is required for this access. However, due to the AMT vulnerability, attackers can send a packet to an AMT-enabled CPU and gain full root access, granting them control over the computer's firmware and other operations.

Impact and risks of the AMT vulnerability

The AMT vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using Intel-based platforms with enabled AMT technology. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to carry out unauthorized activities such as modifying firmware, unauthorized access, and potential data breaches. While the vulnerability requires network access, internal networks can also be susceptible to exploitation.

Vulnerable platforms and affected vendors

The AMT vulnerability primarily affects server-grade Intel platforms that have specifically enabled AMT or Small Business Manager (SMB) technology. Not all Intel processors have this firmware, and most consumer-grade PCs are not affected. Vendors such as HP, Dell, Lenovo, and others have reported affected servers, particularly those tagged with vPro.

Protection and patching

To mitigate the AMT vulnerability, it is crucial to apply the necessary firmware updates and patches. Identifying the affected platforms can be challenging, but Intel has released a network scanner to help in this process. Additionally, affected organizations should keep track of updates provided by their respective vendors and apply them promptly.

Network scanning for vulnerable appliances

Intel's network scanner can be used to scan the network for vulnerable appliances. This tool helps organizations identify and prioritize systems that require immediate attention and patching. By regularly scanning the network, the security team can stay vigilant and ensure all vulnerable appliances are secured.

Firewall configuration to mitigate the vulnerability

To prevent remote exploitation, organizations are advised to configure their firewalls to block ports 16992 through 16995, 623, and 625. Blocking these ports prevents unauthorized access from the internet, minimizing the risk of exploitation. Firewall rules should be carefully implemented and regularly audited to ensure proper protection.

Segmentation and internal firewalling

In addition to external firewall configurations, internal network segmentation and firewalling can further enhance the security posture. By segmenting the network and implementing internal firewalls, organizations can isolate critical systems, limit access privileges, and prevent lateral movement in case of a breach.

Conclusion

The Intel AMT vulnerability poses a significant threat to organizations utilizing AMT-enabled platforms. It is essential to promptly identify vulnerable systems and apply firmware updates and patches provided by the vendors. Additionally, proper network scanning, firewall configurations, and segmentation are crucial to mitigating the risks associated with this vulnerability.

🔒 Protect your organization from the AMT vulnerability and ensure the security of your Intel-based platforms!

Highlights

• The Intel AMT vulnerability, also known as the Silent Bob vulnerability, affects certain Intel server processors.
• Unauthorized access can be gained through the AMT firmware, allowing attackers to modify firmware and perform unauthorized activities.
• Vulnerable platforms include server-grade Intel platforms enabled with AMT or SMB technology.
• Vendors such as HP, Dell, Lenovo, and others have reported affected servers, especially those with vPro tags.
• It is crucial to apply firmware updates and patches to mitigate the AMT vulnerability.
• Intel's network scanner helps identify vulnerable appliances within the network.
• Configuring firewalls to block specific ports minimizes the risk of remote exploitation.
• Internal network segmentation and firewalling provide an additional layer of security.
• Regularly scanning the network and keeping up with vendor updates is essential for maintaining security.

FAQ

1. Q: Which Intel processors are affected by the AMT vulnerability?

   • A: The AMT vulnerability primarily affects server-grade Intel platforms with enabled AMT or SMB technology. Most consumer-grade PCs are not affected.

2. Q: How can organizations protect against the AMT vulnerability?

   • A: Organizations should apply the necessary firmware updates and patches provided by their vendors. Additionally, configuring firewalls to block specific ports and implementing network segmentation can enhance protection.

3. Q: Does the AMT vulnerability pose a risk to internal networks?

   • A: Yes, internal networks can also be susceptible to exploitation. Proper firewall configurations and internal segmentation are essential for minimizing the risk.

4. Q: Is WatchGuard Firebox vulnerable to the AMT vulnerability?

   • A: WatchGuard Firebox devices that utilize Intel processors are not vulnerable to the AMT vulnerability, as they do not load the necessary firmware.

5. Q: How can I scan my network for vulnerable appliances?

   • A: Intel has released a network scanner that can be used to identify vulnerable appliances within the network. The scanner helps prioritize systems that require immediate attention and patching.

Resources

• Intel Network Scanner
• WatchGuard Firebox