CVE-2022-23821
NVD-CWE-OtherPublished: November 14, 2023· Updated: Jun 17, 2026
Official Description
Improper access control in System Management Mode (SMM) may allow an attacker to write to SPI ROM potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
Risk Analysis
Improper access control in the System Management Mode (SMM) of certain AMD processors allows an attacker to write to the SPI ROM. This can lead to arbitrary code execution and full system compromise. The critical CVSS score reflects the high impact of this firmware vulnerability.
No public exploit is known, and the vulnerability is not in the CISA KEV. It is remotely exploitable with low complexity.
Update the system firmware (BIOS/UEFI) to the versions provided by AMD that address this access control issue. Ensure that physical and remote access to the system is strictly controlled.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2022-23821 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (4)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (NVD-CWE-Other)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2022-23821 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts