CVE-2024-52879 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting multiple versions of the InsydeH2O UEFI firmware kernel, specifically versions prior to 05.29.50 (kernel 5.2), 05.38.50 (kernel 5.3), 05.46.50 (kernel 5.4), 05.54.50 (kernel 5.5), 05.61.50 (kernel 5.6), and 05.70.50 (kernel 5.7). The vulnerability resides in the VariableRuntimeDxe driver within the System Management Mode (SMM) environment, specifically in the SmmUpdateVariablePropertySmi() callback function. This function uses the StrCmp() routine to compare variable names, but due to improper handling, it can cause a buffer over-read condition (CWE-126). Buffer over-read vulnerabilities can lead to the disclosure of sensitive information from adjacent memory areas, potentially leaking confidential data stored in firmware or system memory. The vulnerability is exploitable remotely (AV:N), requires no privileges (PR:N), and no user interaction (UI:N), making it easier for attackers to exploit. The impact is primarily on confidentiality (C:H), with no direct impact on integrity or availability. Since this vulnerability exists in the firmware layer, exploitation could allow attackers to bypass OS-level security controls and access sensitive information at a low level, which is particularly concerning given the privileged execution context of SMM. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or vendor advisories are linked yet, indicating that affected organizations should monitor for updates closely and consider mitigation strategies proactively.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-52879 is significant due to the critical role firmware plays in system security and trust. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, including cryptographic keys, passwords, or other confidential information stored or processed at the firmware level. This could compromise the security of enterprise systems, especially in sectors with high-value targets such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure. Since the vulnerability affects the UEFI firmware, it could undermine the integrity of secure boot processes and trusted platform modules, potentially facilitating further attacks or persistent threats. The lack of required privileges or user interaction lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the risk profile. European organizations relying on hardware with InsydeH2O firmware versions affected by this vulnerability should consider the risk of espionage, data breaches, and long-term compromise, which could have regulatory and reputational consequences under GDPR and other data protection frameworks.

1. Immediate firmware updates: Organizations should prioritize obtaining and applying firmware updates from hardware vendors as soon as they become available to address this vulnerability. 2. Inventory and assessment: Conduct a thorough inventory of hardware to identify devices running vulnerable InsydeH2O firmware versions. 3. Firmware integrity monitoring: Implement tools that can detect unauthorized changes or anomalies in firmware to identify potential exploitation attempts. 4. Restrict physical and remote access: Limit access to management interfaces and ensure that only trusted personnel can perform firmware updates or interact with SMM components. 5. Enable and enforce secure boot: Ensure secure boot is enabled to prevent unauthorized firmware or bootloader modifications. 6. Network segmentation: Isolate critical systems to reduce the attack surface and limit the ability of attackers to reach vulnerable devices remotely. 7. Monitor for unusual behavior: Deploy advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting low-level firmware attacks or suspicious SMM activity. 8. Vendor engagement: Engage with hardware vendors and firmware providers to receive timely security advisories and patches. 9. Incident response planning: Prepare for potential firmware compromise scenarios with clear response and recovery procedures.