CVE-2020-15861 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Net-SNMP through 5.7.3 allows Escalation of Privileges due to UNIX symbolic link (symlink) following.

Understanding CVE-2020-15861

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Net-SNMP that allows for the escalation of privileges through symlink following.

What is CVE-2020-15861?

Net-SNMP through version 5.7.3 is susceptible to a privilege escalation issue caused by the way UNIX symbolic links are followed.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15861

The vulnerability could potentially allow an attacker to escalate their privileges on a system where Net-SNMP is installed.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15861

Net-SNMP through version 5.7.3 is affected by a privilege escalation vulnerability due to symlink following.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Net-SNMP allows an attacker to exploit symbolic links to escalate their privileges on the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Net-SNMP
Vendor: N/A
Versions affected: Up to and including 5.7.3

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited through manipulating UNIX symbolic links to gain unauthorized access and escalate privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2020-15861 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by the vendor promptly.
Monitor for any unauthorized access or privilege escalation attempts.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement least privilege access controls to limit potential damage.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Net-SNMP is updated to a version that addresses the symlink following vulnerability.