CVE-2020-12713 : Security Advisory and Response

An issue was discovered in CipherMail Community Gateway and Professional/Enterprise Gateway 1.0.1 through 4.7.1-0 and CipherMail Webmail Messenger 1.1.1 through 3.1.1-0. Attackers with administrative access to the web interface have multiple options to escalate their privileges to the Unix root account.

Understanding CVE-2020-12713

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in CipherMail products that allows attackers with administrative access to the web interface to escalate their privileges to the Unix root account.

What is CVE-2020-12713?

CVE-2020-12713 is a security vulnerability found in CipherMail Community Gateway, Professional/Enterprise Gateway versions 1.0.1 through 4.7.1-0, and CipherMail Webmail Messenger versions 1.1.1 through 3.1.1-0.

The Impact of CVE-2020-12713

The vulnerability enables attackers to elevate their privileges to the Unix root account, potentially leading to unauthorized control and access to the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-12713

This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in CipherMail products allows attackers with administrative access to the web interface to escalate their privileges to the Unix root account, providing them with extensive control over the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

CipherMail Community Gateway versions 1.0.1 through 4.7.1-0
CipherMail Professional/Enterprise Gateway versions 1.0.1 through 4.7.1-0
CipherMail Webmail Messenger versions 1.1.1 through 3.1.1-0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit this vulnerability by leveraging their administrative access to the web interface, utilizing multiple options to gain root access to Unix accounts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-12713 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update CipherMail products to the latest patched versions to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor administrative access to the web interface for any suspicious activities.
Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and review system privileges and access levels.
Conduct security training for administrators to recognize and respond to potential threats effectively.
Stay informed about security updates and best practices to enhance overall system security.
Consider implementing additional security layers such as intrusion detection systems.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by CipherMail promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.