CVE-2020-12026 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Advantech WebAccess Node, Version 8.4.4 and prior, Version 9.0.0, is affected by multiple relative path traversal vulnerabilities that could be exploited by a low privilege user to overwrite files outside the application's control.

Understanding CVE-2020-12026

This CVE involves security vulnerabilities in Advantech WebAccess Node software.

What is CVE-2020-12026?

CVE-2020-12026 refers to multiple relative path traversal vulnerabilities in Advantech WebAccess Node versions 8.4.4 and earlier, as well as version 9.0.0. These vulnerabilities could potentially enable unauthorized users to manipulate files beyond the application's intended boundaries.

The Impact of CVE-2020-12026

The vulnerabilities in CVE-2020-12026 could allow a low privilege user to overwrite files outside the application's control, posing a risk of unauthorized access and potential data manipulation.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-12026

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerabilities in Advantech WebAccess Node versions 8.4.4 and 9.0.0 are related to relative path traversal, which could be exploited by attackers to access and modify files outside the application's designated scope.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Advantech WebAccess Node
Versions Affected: WebAccess Node Version 8.4.4 and prior, WebAccess Node Version 9.0.0

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerabilities stem from improper handling of file paths, allowing unauthorized users to navigate to and modify files outside the application's intended directories.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-12026 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly to mitigate the vulnerabilities.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems to authorized personnel only.
Monitor file system activities for any suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Implement access controls and least privilege principles to limit unauthorized access.
Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all affected systems are updated with the latest patches provided by Advantech to address the relative path traversal vulnerabilities.