CVE-2020-15246 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

October CMS versions 1.0.421 to 1.0.468 are vulnerable to a Local File Inclusion (LFI) attack, allowing unauthenticated attackers to read local files on the server.

Understanding CVE-2020-15246

This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in October CMS that enables unauthorized users to access sensitive files on the server.

What is CVE-2020-15246?

In October CMS versions 1.0.421 to 1.0.468, a flaw allows attackers to exploit a specially crafted request to access local files on the server.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15246

The vulnerability poses a high severity risk with a CVSS base score of 7.5, impacting confidentiality by allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15246

October CMS's vulnerability to Local File Inclusion by unauthenticated users has the following technical aspects:

Vulnerability Description

The issue in versions 1.0.421 to 1.0.468 allows attackers to read local files on the server through a crafted request.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: October
Vendor: OctoberCMS
Versions Affected: >= 1.0.421, < 1.0.469

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely over the network without requiring any privileges, making it a critical security concern.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-15246 and enhance security, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update October CMS to version 1.0.469 or higher to apply the necessary patches.
Monitor server logs for any suspicious activity indicating a potential LFI attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation to prevent malicious file inclusions.
Regularly audit and review server configurations to identify and mitigate security risks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches released by OctoberCMS to address known vulnerabilities.