CVE-2020-15258 : Security Advisory and Response

In Wire before 3.20.x, a vulnerability exists due to insecure use of

shell.openExternal

, allowing attackers to execute code on victims' machines through crafted links.

Understanding CVE-2020-15258

Insecure use of

shell.openExternal

in Wire before version 3.20.x.

What is CVE-2020-15258?

This vulnerability in Wire desktop versions prior to 3.20.x enables attackers to run arbitrary code on a target system by sending messages with malicious links.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15258

CVSS Base Score: 8.0 (High)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: High
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
Scope: Changed
Exploitation requires user interaction with a malicious link.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15258

Vulnerability details, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from the lack of URL validation in the

shell.openExternal

function.
Attackers can exploit this by tricking users into clicking malicious links.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: wire-desktop
Vendor: wireapp
Versions Affected: < 3.20.x

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers send messages with links containing arbitrary protocols to execute code on victims' machines.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-15258.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Wire desktop to version 3.20.x or newer.
Avoid clicking on links from untrusted sources.
Be cautious when interacting with URLs in messages.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions.
Educate users on safe browsing practices and the risks of clicking on unknown links.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Wire to fix the vulnerability and enhance security.