CVE-2020-11037 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-11037, a vulnerability in Wagtail versions < 2.7.2 and >= 2.8, < 2.8.2 allowing potential timing attacks on shared passwords. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
In Wagtail before versions 2.7.2 and 2.8.2, a potential timing attack exists on pages or documents that have been protected with a shared password through Wagtail's "Privacy" controls. This vulnerability allows an attacker to potentially gain knowledge of the password by measuring the time taken for a character-by-character string comparison. This issue has been patched in versions 2.7.3, 2.8.2, and 2.9.
Understanding CVE-2020-11037
What is CVE-2020-11037?
CVE-2020-11037 refers to a potential observable timing discrepancy vulnerability in Wagtail versions prior to 2.7.2 and 2.8.2. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to exploit timing differences to obtain a shared password.
The Impact of CVE-2020-11037
The impact of this vulnerability is rated as MEDIUM with a CVSS base score of 6.1. The confidentiality impact is high, while the integrity impact is low. The attack complexity is high, and privileges are required for exploitation.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-11037
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a timing attack on pages or documents protected with a shared password through Wagtail's "Privacy" controls.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Wagtail versions < 2.7.2
- Wagtail versions >= 2.8, < 2.8.2
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attacker measures time taken for character-by-character string comparison
- Timing differences used to gain knowledge of the password
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Wagtail to versions 2.7.3, 2.8.2, or 2.9
- Avoid using shared passwords for sensitive content
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement per-user or per-group access restrictions
- Regularly monitor for unusual activities
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches promptly to mitigate known vulnerabilities