CVE-2020-14004 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

An issue was discovered in Icinga2 before v2.12.0-rc1 where the prepare-dirs script executed as part of the icinga2 systemd service could lead to arbitrary file changes.

Understanding CVE-2020-14004

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Icinga2 that could allow unprivileged users to modify files.

What is CVE-2020-14004?

The prepare-dirs script in Icinga2 before v2.12.0-rc1, executed as part of the icinga2 systemd service, could change file permissions, potentially allowing unauthorized modifications.

The Impact of CVE-2020-14004

The vulnerability could be exploited by unprivileged users to change file permissions, leading to unauthorized modifications.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-14004

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The prepare-dirs script in Icinga2 before v2.12.0-rc1 executes chmod 2750 /run/icinga2/cmd, allowing unprivileged users to modify files.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

If /run/icinga2/cmd is a symlink, unprivileged users can follow it and change arbitrary files to mode 2750.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-14004 with these steps.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to Icinga2 v2.12.0-rc1 or later.
Monitor system logs for any unauthorized file modifications.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user capabilities.
Regularly review and update file permissions to prevent unauthorized changes.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Icinga2 to address this vulnerability.