CVE-2020-15352 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

An XML external entity (XXE) vulnerability in Pulse Connect Secure (PCS) before 9.1R9 and Pulse Policy Secure (PPS) before 9.1R9 allows remote authenticated admins to conduct server-side request forgery (SSRF) attacks via a crafted DTD in an XML request.

Understanding CVE-2020-15352

This CVE involves an XXE vulnerability in Pulse Connect Secure and Pulse Policy Secure that enables authenticated admins to perform SSRF attacks.

What is CVE-2020-15352?

CVE-2020-15352 is an XXE vulnerability in Pulse Connect Secure and Pulse Policy Secure that can be exploited by authenticated admins for SSRF attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15352

The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate XML requests, potentially leading to SSRF attacks, posing a risk to the confidentiality and integrity of data.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15352

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper handling of XML external entities, enabling SSRF attacks through specially crafted DTD in XML requests.

Affected Systems and Versions

Pulse Connect Secure (PCS) versions before 9.1R9
Pulse Policy Secure (PPS) versions before 9.1R9

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious DTD in XML requests, allowing them to forge server-side requests.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-15352 is crucial to prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Pulse Connect Secure and Pulse Policy Secure to versions 9.1R9 or later.
Monitor and restrict XML requests to prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation to prevent XXE vulnerabilities.
Regularly audit and review XML processing mechanisms for security flaws.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Pulse Secure promptly to address the vulnerability.