CVE-2018-20781 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-20781, a vulnerability in GNOME Keyring before version 3.27.2 that exposes user credentials in plain text. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
This CVE-2018-20781 article provides insights into a security vulnerability in GNOME Keyring before version 3.27.2 that could potentially expose user credentials in plain text.
Understanding CVE-2018-20781
This CVE involves the storage of user passwords in a session-child process derived from the LightDM daemon within the GNOME Keyring software.
What is CVE-2018-20781?
The vulnerability in pam/gkr-pam-module.c in GNOME Keyring before version 3.27.2 allows for the disclosure of user credentials in plain text due to how passwords are managed.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20781
The exposure of user passwords in cleartext poses a significant security risk, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20781
This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The user's password is stored in a session-child process spawned from the LightDM daemon in GNOME Keyring before version 3.27.2, making it susceptible to exposure in plain text.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions affected: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability arises from the flawed password storage mechanism within the GNOME Keyring software, allowing attackers to potentially access user credentials.
Mitigation and Prevention
Understanding how to address and prevent the CVE-2018-20781 vulnerability is crucial for maintaining system security.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to GNOME Keyring version 3.27.2 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unauthorized access or suspicious activities on the system.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement strong password policies and encourage regular password updates.
- Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address potential risks.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security updates and patches released by GNOME Keyring to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.