CVE-2018-20250 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2018-20250, a path traversal vulnerability in WinRAR versions prior to and including 5.61. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
In previous versions of WinRAR, including 5.61, a vulnerability exists that allows for path traversal when creating the filename field of the ACE format in UNACEV2.dll. By manipulating specific patterns in the filename field, the extraction process disregards the destination folder and interprets the filename as an absolute path.
Understanding CVE-2018-20250
This CVE involves a path traversal vulnerability in WinRAR versions prior to and including 5.61.
What is CVE-2018-20250?
CVE-2018-20250 is a security vulnerability in WinRAR that enables path traversal by manipulating the filename field of the ACE format in UNACEV2.dll.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20250
The vulnerability allows attackers to craft malicious ACE archives that, when extracted, can lead to arbitrary code execution or unauthorized access to sensitive files on the system.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20250
This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in WinRAR versions prior to 5.61 arises from improper handling of the filename field in the ACE format, leading to path traversal.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: WinRAR
- Vendor: Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.
- Affected Versions: All versions prior to and including 5.61
Exploitation Mechanism
By manipulating specific patterns in the filename field of the ACE format, attackers can create archives that, when extracted, execute code in unintended locations on the system.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-20250 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update WinRAR to a version beyond 5.61 to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Exercise caution when extracting archives from untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
- Implement file and path validation mechanisms to prevent path traversal vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure WinRAR is regularly updated to the latest version to address security vulnerabilities and enhance system security.