CVE-2022-45163 is an information disclosure vulnerability affecting a range of NXP semiconductor devices, specifically those configured to use the Serial Download Protocol (SDP) mode. The affected devices include several i.MX RT series microcontrollers (1010, 1015, 1020, 1050, 1060), i.MX 6 Family, i.MX 7Dual/Solo, i.MX 7ULP, i.MX 8M Quad, i.MX 8M Mini, and Vybrid processors. These devices are commonly used in embedded systems across various industries including automotive, industrial control, consumer electronics, and IoT applications. The vulnerability arises when these devices are configured with security features enabled but still have the SDP mode accessible. In this mode, an attacker with physical proximity to the device can exploit cold or warm boot scenarios to access memory contents via the SDP port. This can lead to leakage of sensitive information stored in memory, such as cryptographic keys, firmware code, or other confidential data. The attack does not require any authentication or user interaction, but it does require physical access to the device’s SDP interface, which is typically exposed during device manufacturing or debugging. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-203 (Information Exposure Through Discrepancy) and has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.3 (medium severity). The vector indicates low attack complexity, physical attack vector, no privileges required, no user interaction, and a scope change, with high impact on confidentiality but no impact on integrity or availability. No known exploits have been reported in the wild to date. The recommended mitigation is to disable the SDP mode permanently by programming a one-time programmable eFUSE, effectively preventing the device from entering SDP mode and thus blocking this attack vector. Customers are advised to contact NXP for detailed guidance on implementing this mitigation. This vulnerability highlights the risk of leaving debug or manufacturing interfaces enabled in production devices, especially when these interfaces can bypass security controls and expose sensitive memory contents.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-45163 depends largely on the deployment of affected NXP devices within their operational technology (OT), embedded systems, or IoT infrastructure. Leakage of sensitive memory contents could compromise intellectual property, cryptographic keys, or device firmware, potentially enabling further attacks such as cloning, reverse engineering, or unauthorized device control. In sectors like automotive manufacturing, industrial automation, and critical infrastructure, such exposure could undermine system integrity and confidentiality, leading to operational disruptions or safety risks. Given the requirement for physical proximity and access to the SDP port, the threat is more pronounced in environments where devices are deployed in accessible or less physically secure locations. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability during maintenance, repair, or in supply chain scenarios to extract sensitive data. The scope of impact is significant for organizations relying on these NXP devices for secure boot, trusted execution, or cryptographic operations. While no active exploitation has been reported, the medium severity rating and the nature of the vulnerability warrant proactive mitigation to prevent potential espionage, intellectual property theft, or sabotage. Failure to address this vulnerability could also affect compliance with European data protection and cybersecurity regulations, especially in critical sectors.

1. Permanently disable SDP mode by programming the one-time programmable eFUSE on affected devices as recommended by NXP. This is the most effective mitigation to prevent unauthorized memory access via the SDP interface. 2. Conduct an inventory of embedded systems and IoT devices to identify those using affected NXP processors and verify their configuration status regarding SDP mode. 3. Implement strict physical security controls around devices, especially those in field or less secure environments, to prevent unauthorized physical access to debug or manufacturing ports. 4. Collaborate with NXP and device manufacturers to obtain firmware updates or configuration guidance that ensures SDP mode is disabled or secured in production devices. 5. For devices already deployed where eFUSE programming is not feasible, consider additional hardware or software controls to restrict access to the SDP port or monitor for unauthorized physical access attempts. 6. Integrate this vulnerability into risk assessments and incident response plans, focusing on supply chain security and device lifecycle management. 7. Educate maintenance and operational personnel about the risks associated with SDP mode and the importance of securing debug interfaces.