CVE-2022-21220 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Intel(R) Quartus(R) Prime Pro Edition versions prior to 21.3. The vulnerability arises from improper restriction of XML External Entity (XXE) processing, classified under CWE-611. Specifically, the software does not adequately restrict XML external entity references, which can be exploited by an authenticated local user to escalate privileges. The attack vector requires local access and low attack complexity, with no user interaction needed. Successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code or access sensitive information with elevated privileges. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects the significant risk posed by this vulnerability. The vulnerability is particularly critical in environments where Intel Quartus Prime Pro Edition is used for FPGA design and development, as unauthorized privilege escalation could lead to tampering with intellectual property or disruption of critical design workflows.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-21220 can be substantial, especially in sectors relying on FPGA technology for critical infrastructure, telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and defense industries. Unauthorized privilege escalation could allow attackers to manipulate design files, inject malicious logic into hardware designs, or disrupt development processes. This could lead to compromised product integrity, intellectual property theft, and potential downstream effects on hardware security and safety. Given the local access requirement, insider threats or compromised user accounts pose a significant risk. Additionally, organizations with shared development environments or insufficient endpoint security controls may face increased exposure. The high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact underscores the need for prompt remediation to prevent potential sabotage or espionage activities targeting European technology firms and critical infrastructure providers.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should prioritize upgrading Intel Quartus Prime Pro Edition to version 21.3 or later, where the vulnerability is addressed. Until patching is possible, organizations should enforce strict access controls to limit local user privileges and restrict access to systems running affected versions. Implementing robust endpoint security solutions that monitor and restrict unauthorized local activities can reduce exploitation risk. Additionally, organizations should audit and monitor user activities on development systems to detect anomalous behavior indicative of privilege escalation attempts. Network segmentation and the use of hardened workstations for FPGA development can further reduce attack surface. Security teams should also educate users about the risks of local privilege escalation and enforce the principle of least privilege to minimize the number of users with local access rights. Finally, maintaining up-to-date inventories of affected software versions and integrating vulnerability scanning into asset management will support timely detection and remediation.