CVE-2020-15117 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

In Synergy before version 1.12.0, a Synergy server can be crashed by receiving a kMsgHelloBack packet with a client name length set to 0xffffffff (4294967295) if the server's memory is less than 4 GB. This issue does not cause a crash if the available memory of the server is more than 4GB.

Understanding CVE-2020-15117

This CVE describes a denial of service vulnerability in Synergy.

What is CVE-2020-15117?

The vulnerability in Synergy allows a server to crash when receiving a specific packet under certain memory conditions.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15117

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.5, with a medium severity rating. It can lead to a denial of service condition with high availability impact.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15117

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper handling of exceptional conditions in Synergy servers.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: synergy-core
Vendor: symless
Versions affected: < 1.12.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from the CVE and preventing future occurrences.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Synergy to version 1.12.0 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor memory usage on Synergy servers to prevent crashes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Implement proper exception handling mechanisms in server applications.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches as soon as they are available.