CVE-2020-11469 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Zoom Client for Meetings through 4.6.8 on macOS has a vulnerability that allows a local process to obtain root access during installation.

Understanding CVE-2020-11469

This CVE involves a security issue in Zoom Client for Meetings on macOS that can lead to privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2020-11469?

The vulnerability in Zoom Client for Meetings on macOS allows a local process to gain root access by replacing a specific file during installation.

The Impact of CVE-2020-11469

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as MEDIUM severity with HIGH confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. It requires user interaction and high privileges to exploit.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-11469

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

During installation, Zoom Client for Meetings on macOS copies a file to a user-writable temporary directory, enabling a local process to escalate privileges by replacing this file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Zoom Client for Meetings
Vendor: Zoom
Versions affected: Through 4.6.8

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability occurs due to the insecure copying of a file to a user-writable temporary directory, allowing a local process to replace the file and gain root access.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-11469, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Zoom Client for Meetings to the latest version.
Avoid running Zoom in environments with untrusted processes.
Monitor for any unauthorized system changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access.
Conduct security training to educate users on safe computing practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Zoom to fix the vulnerability and enhance security.