CVE-2020-15941 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A path traversal vulnerability in FortiClientEMS versions 6.4.1 and below; 6.2.8 and below may allow an attacker to manipulate server files.

Understanding CVE-2020-15941

This CVE involves a path traversal vulnerability in FortiClientEMS versions that could be exploited by an authenticated attacker.

What is CVE-2020-15941?

CWE-22 path traversal vulnerability in FortiClientEMS versions 6.4.1 and below; 6.2.8 and below
Attackers can inject directory traversal character sequences via the name parameter of Deployment Packages

The Impact of CVE-2020-15941

CVSS Base Score: 5.4 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Confidentiality Impact: None
Integrity Impact: Low
Availability Impact: Low
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Exploit Code Maturity: Functional
Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:L/E:F/RL:X/RC:X

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15941

Vulnerability Description

Path traversal vulnerability allows adding/deleting server files

Affected Systems and Versions

Fortinet FortiClientEMS versions 6.4.1, 6.4.0, 6.2.8, 6.2.7, 6.2.6, 6.2.4, 6.2.3, 6.2.2, 6.2.1, 6.2.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers inject directory traversal character sequences via the name parameter of Deployment Packages

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches immediately
Monitor for any unauthorized access or file modifications

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to latest versions
Implement access controls and least privilege principles
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing

Patching and Updates

Fortinet has provided patches to address the vulnerability