CVE-2023-20596
NVD-CWE-noinfoPublished: November 14, 2023· Updated: Jun 17, 2026
Official Description
Improper input validation in the SMM Supervisor may allow an attacker with a compromised SMI handler to gain Ring0 access potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability involves improper input validation in the AMD SMM Supervisor, which can allow an attacker to gain Ring0 access. Successful exploitation leads to arbitrary code execution at the highest privilege level. The critical CVSS score underscores the severity of this firmware-level flaw.
There is no public exploit known, and it is not in the CISA KEV. It is remotely exploitable with low complexity.
Apply the latest firmware updates provided by AMD for the affected Ryzen processors. Monitor for official security bulletins regarding SMM supervisor hardening.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2023-20596 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 (2)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (NVD-CWE-noinfo)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2023-20596 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts