CVE-2024-5477 Overview
A potential security vulnerability has been identified in the System BIOS for some HP PC products which may allow escalation of privilege, arbitrary code execution, denial of service, or information disclosure via a physical attack that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. HP is releasing firmware mitigation for the potential vulnerability.
Critical Impact
This BIOS/UEFI vulnerability enables attackers with physical access and specialized equipment to gain complete system control, execute arbitrary code, or extract sensitive information from affected HP PC products.
Affected Products
- HP PC Products with vulnerable System BIOS versions
- Multiple HP desktop and laptop models (refer to HP Security Advisory HPSBHF04043 for complete list)
- Systems running unpatched BIOS firmware
Discovery Timeline
- 2025-08-13 - CVE-2024-5477 published to NVD
- 2025-08-14 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-5477
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability falls under CWE-1256 (Improper Restriction of Software Interfaces to Hardware Features), indicating that the BIOS firmware fails to properly restrict access to critical hardware interfaces. The physical attack vector combined with high attack complexity means an adversary requires not only physical access to the target system but also specialized equipment and technical knowledge to exploit this flaw.
The vulnerability can lead to multiple severe outcomes including privilege escalation, arbitrary code execution, denial of service, and information disclosure. Given that the BIOS operates at the lowest software level before the operating system loads, successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass traditional security measures including secure boot mechanisms and operating system-level protections.
Root Cause
The root cause of CVE-2024-5477 is related to CWE-1256 (Improper Restriction of Software Interfaces to Hardware Features). This weakness occurs when firmware fails to adequately control how software can interact with sensitive hardware components. In the context of HP System BIOS, this could allow unauthorized manipulation of hardware configuration or execution flow during the pre-boot phase, enabling persistent compromise that survives operating system reinstallation.
Attack Vector
The attack requires physical access to the target HP PC system. An attacker must possess specialized equipment and technical knowledge to exploit this vulnerability. The physical access requirement means this is not a remotely exploitable vulnerability, but rather targets scenarios where an adversary has hands-on access to the hardware. This type of attack is commonly associated with supply chain attacks, evil maid scenarios, or insider threats in high-security environments.
Given the nature of BIOS vulnerabilities, exploitation typically involves interfacing directly with system firmware through debug interfaces, flash programming tools, or manipulation of firmware update mechanisms. Once exploited, the attacker can achieve persistent code execution at the firmware level, which persists across reboots and operating system reinstallations.
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-5477
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected changes to BIOS settings or configuration that cannot be attributed to authorized modifications
- System boot failures or unusual pre-boot behavior indicating firmware tampering
- Unauthorized firmware version changes detected during BIOS integrity verification
- Evidence of physical case intrusion or tampered security seals on affected systems
Detection Strategies
- Implement firmware integrity monitoring using hardware-based attestation mechanisms like TPM (Trusted Platform Module)
- Deploy endpoint detection solutions capable of monitoring BIOS and UEFI configuration changes
- Conduct regular BIOS version audits to ensure all systems are running the latest patched firmware
- Enable BIOS write protection features where available to prevent unauthorized modifications
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable secure boot with measured boot logging to detect unauthorized firmware changes
- Monitor for unexpected BIOS update activities outside of scheduled maintenance windows
- Implement physical security monitoring and access controls for high-value systems
- Review system event logs for firmware-related errors or warnings that could indicate tampering attempts
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-5477
Immediate Actions Required
- Review the HP Security Advisory to identify affected systems and available firmware updates
- Inventory all HP PC products in the environment and determine which systems require BIOS updates
- Prioritize patching for systems in high-risk physical environments or those containing sensitive data
- Enable BIOS password protection to restrict unauthorized firmware modifications
Patch Information
HP is releasing firmware mitigation for this vulnerability. Administrators should consult the official HP Security Advisory HPSBHF04043 for specific firmware versions and update instructions. The advisory contains detailed information about affected product models and the appropriate BIOS updates to apply.
When updating BIOS firmware, ensure the update is downloaded from official HP sources only and verify the integrity of the firmware package before installation. BIOS updates should be performed during scheduled maintenance windows and systems should not be interrupted during the update process.
Workarounds
- Implement strong physical security controls to limit unauthorized access to affected systems
- Enable BIOS setup password protection to prevent unauthorized configuration changes
- Utilize chassis intrusion detection mechanisms where available on enterprise systems
- Consider BitLocker or similar full-disk encryption with TPM binding to detect pre-boot tampering
- Restrict boot device options in BIOS to prevent booting from unauthorized external media
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
