CVE-2020-15264 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2020-15264, a vulnerability in Boxstarter installer before version 2.13.0 allowing unprivileged users to execute code with SYSTEM privileges. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
Boxstarter installer before version 2.13.0 allows unprivileged users to execute code with SYSTEM privileges by placing a DLL in a writable directory. The vulnerability is fixed in version 3.13.0.
Understanding CVE-2020-15264
Boxstarter installer vulnerability that enables privilege escalation for unprivileged users.
What is CVE-2020-15264?
The vulnerability in Boxstarter installer before version 2.13.0 allows unprivileged users to execute code with SYSTEM privileges by placing a DLL in a specific directory.
The Impact of CVE-2020-15264
- CVSS Score: 8 (High)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Privileges Required: Low
- Scope: Changed
- User Interaction: Required
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
Technical Details of CVE-2020-15264
Boxstarter installer vulnerability details.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the Boxstarter installer configuring a writable directory in the system-wide PATH environment variable, allowing unprivileged users to execute code with SYSTEM privileges.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Boxstarter
- Vendor: Chocolatey
- Affected Version: < 2.13.0
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit the vulnerability, an attacker can place a DLL in the writable directory configured by the Boxstarter installer, enabling the execution of code with SYSTEM privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2020-15264 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade Boxstarter to version 3.13.0 or higher to eliminate the vulnerability.
- Restrict write access to sensitive directories to prevent unauthorized DLL placement.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement least privilege access to limit user capabilities and reduce the impact of potential exploits.
- Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address security weaknesses.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches and updates promptly to ensure systems are protected against known vulnerabilities.