CVE-2023-28005 is a vulnerability identified in Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption Full Disk Encryption (FDE) version 6.0.0.3204 and earlier. This vulnerability allows an attacker with physical access to a device to bypass the Microsoft Windows Secure Boot process. Secure Boot is a security standard designed to ensure that a device boots using only software that is trusted by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). By bypassing Secure Boot, an attacker could potentially execute unauthorized code or launch further attacks on the system's firmware or operating system. However, it is important to note that the encrypted contents of the disk protected by Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption FDE remain inaccessible through this vulnerability alone, as the encryption layer still protects data confidentiality. The attack requires physical access, no user interaction, and no prior authentication, making it a local attack vector with medium complexity. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.8, reflecting a medium severity with high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability if exploited. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or mitigation links were provided in the source information. This vulnerability primarily targets the boot process security, which is critical for maintaining system integrity and trustworthiness from the moment the device powers on.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk particularly to sectors where endpoint security and data protection are critical, such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. If an attacker gains physical access to a device, they could bypass Secure Boot protections to execute malicious code or tamper with the boot process, potentially leading to persistent firmware-level malware infections or system compromise. Although the disk encryption protects data confidentiality, the ability to bypass Secure Boot undermines the device's overall security posture and could facilitate further attacks that compromise system integrity and availability. This is especially concerning for organizations with mobile or remote workforces where devices may be lost or stolen. The vulnerability could also impact compliance with European data protection regulations like GDPR, as unauthorized access or tampering with devices could lead to data breaches or loss of data integrity. The medium severity rating suggests that while the vulnerability is not trivial, it requires physical access and does not directly expose encrypted data, somewhat limiting the scope of impact. Nevertheless, the potential for boot process compromise makes it a critical consideration for endpoint security strategies in Europe.

1. Immediate mitigation should include restricting physical access to devices, especially laptops and mobile endpoints, through secure storage and physical security controls. 2. Organizations should ensure that all devices running Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption Full Disk Encryption are updated to the latest available version beyond 6.0.0.3204 once patches are released by Trend Micro. 3. Implement hardware-based security features such as Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and enable full Secure Boot enforcement policies in BIOS/UEFI settings to reduce the risk of boot process tampering. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous boot or firmware activities that could indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on physical security and boot process integrity. 6. Educate employees on the importance of device security and reporting lost or stolen devices promptly. 7. Consider additional encryption or multi-factor authentication at the hardware or firmware level to complement full disk encryption. 8. Monitor vendor advisories closely for patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly.