CVE-2017-6466 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the security vulnerability in F-Secure Software Updater 2.20 (CVE-2017-6466) allowing attackers to replace downloaded files with malicious executables, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution. Learn how to mitigate and prevent this threat.
F-Secure Software Updater 2.20, included in various F-Secure products, has a vulnerability allowing attackers to replace downloaded files with malicious executables.
Understanding CVE-2017-6466
This CVE involves a security flaw in the F-Secure Software Updater 2.20 that could lead to unauthorized code execution.
What is CVE-2017-6466?
The vulnerability in F-Secure Software Updater 2.20 enables attackers to substitute downloaded files with their own executables, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution with SYSTEM account privileges.
The Impact of CVE-2017-6466
The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in severe security breaches, allowing threat actors to execute malicious code on affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-6466
F-Secure Software Updater 2.20 vulnerability details and affected systems.
Vulnerability Description
The software updater downloads installation packages over plain HTTP without verifying file integrity post-download, enabling man-in-the-middle attacks to replace files with malicious executables.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: 2.20 (affected)
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit the lack of file integrity validation in the updater to replace downloaded files with their own executables, leading to unauthorized code execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protective measures to mitigate the CVE-2017-6466 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable automatic updates in the Software Updater to prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious files.
- Regularly monitor for any suspicious activities or unauthorized changes in the system.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement HTTPS for secure file downloads to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks.
- Ensure all downloaded files are digitally signed and verify the author of the signature before execution.
Patching and Updates
- Update F-Secure products to the latest versions that address this vulnerability.