CVE-2020-1576 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-1576, a high-severity Remote Code Execution vulnerability in Microsoft SharePoint. Find affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
Microsoft SharePoint Remote Code Execution Vulnerability was published on September 11, 2020, with a CVSS base score of 8.5.
Understanding CVE-2020-1576
A remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft SharePoint enables attackers to run arbitrary code within the SharePoint application pool and server farm account context.
What is CVE-2020-1576?
- The vulnerability arises from the failure of SharePoint to validate the source markup of an application package.
- Successful exploitation involves uploading a malicious SharePoint application package to a vulnerable version of SharePoint.
- The security update rectifies the issue by enhancing SharePoint's validation of application package source markup.
The Impact of CVE-2020-1576
- Type: Remote Code Execution
- Severity: High (CVSS base score: 8.5)
Technical Details of CVE-2020-1576
This section provides in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows remote code execution in SharePoint due to inadequate validation of application package source markup.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016 (Version 16.0.0)
- Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2013 Service Pack 1 (Version 15.0.0)
- Microsoft SharePoint Server 2019 (Version 16.0.0)
- Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2010 Service Pack 2 (Version 13.0.0)
- Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2013 Service Pack 1 (Version 15.0.0)
- Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010 Service Pack 2 (Version 13.0.0.0)
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by uploading specially crafted SharePoint application packages to vulnerable SharePoint versions.
Mitigation and Prevention
Taking immediate action and applying long-term security practices are crucial in addressing this vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to patch the vulnerability.
- Restrict user permissions to minimize the impact of potential exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Conduct regular security assessments and audits of SharePoint deployments.
- Educate users on safe file and application handling practices to prevent future vulnerabilities.
- Monitor and log SharePoint activities to detect any suspicious behavior.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches from Microsoft to protect SharePoint environments.