CVE-2018-20131 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-20131 affecting Code42 app on Linux systems. Discover the impact, affected versions, exploitation risks, and mitigation steps to secure your systems.
Versions of the Code42 app installed on Linux systems prior to 6.8.4, specifically in Code42 for Enterprise, have a vulnerability related to permissions in the /usr/local/crashplan/log directory, allowing users to exploit symbolic links for privilege escalation or unauthorized file access.
Understanding CVE-2018-20131
This CVE entry highlights a security flaw in the Code42 app on Linux systems that could lead to privilege escalation and unauthorized file access.
What is CVE-2018-20131?
The vulnerability in the Code42 app on Linux systems allows users to manipulate symbolic links in the /usr/local/crashplan/log directory to gain elevated privileges or view confidential files.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20131
The vulnerability enables unauthorized users to access sensitive files and potentially escalate their privileges on affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20131
This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The Code42 app before version 6.8.4 on Linux systems has overly permissive permissions on the /usr/local/crashplan/log directory, enabling users to exploit symbolic links for privilege escalation and unauthorized file access.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Code42 app
- Vendor: Code42
- Versions Affected: Prior to 6.8.4
Exploitation Mechanism
Users can exploit symbolic links in the /usr/local/crashplan/log directory to elevate their privileges or access confidential files.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade the Code42 app to version 6.8.4 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Restrict access to sensitive directories to authorized users only.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and audit file permissions on critical directories.
- Educate users on the risks of symbolic link manipulation and privilege escalation.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.