CVE-2020-0604 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Visual Studio Code Remote Code Execution Vulnerability was published on August 17, 2020, by Microsoft.

Understanding CVE-2020-0604

This CVE involves a remote code execution vulnerability in Visual Studio Code, affecting specific versions of the software.

What is CVE-2020-0604?

A remote code execution flaw in Visual Studio Code allows attackers to run arbitrary code as the current user, potentially gaining control of the system.

The Impact of CVE-2020-0604

This vulnerability poses a high risk, with a CVSS base score of 7.8, allowing attackers to install programs, access data, and create accounts on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-0604

This section provides insight into the vulnerability's specific aspects.

Vulnerability Description

Occurs when Visual Studio Code processes environment variables post opening a project
Exploitation requires the target to open an attacker's specified code in the integrated terminal

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Microsoft
Product: Visual Studio Code
Versions affected: 1.0.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit by manipulating environment variables to execute arbitrary code on the targeted system

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting against CVE-2020-0604 involves immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Visual Studio Code to the latest version addressing this vulnerability
Avoid opening repositories from untrusted sources

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to patch vulnerabilities
Educate users on safe coding practices to prevent code execution attacks

Patching and Updates

Microsoft has released an update addressing this vulnerability by enhancing how Visual Studio Code handles environment variables.