CVE-2020-16941 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-16941, an information disclosure vulnerability in Microsoft SharePoint Server that exposes folder paths of scripts on web pages. Find out the impacted systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
Microsoft SharePoint Server improperly discloses its folder structure, potentially exposing sensitive information to attackers.
Understanding CVE-2020-16941
An information disclosure vulnerability in Microsoft SharePoint Server could allow attackers to view folder paths of scripts loaded on specific web pages.
What is CVE-2020-16941?
- The vulnerability arises from SharePoint Server revealing its folder structure during page rendering.
- Attackers exploiting this flaw can access folder paths of scripts loaded on affected pages.
- Access to the targeted SharePoint page is necessary for successful exploitation.
The Impact of CVE-2020-16941
- Severity: Medium with a CVSS base score of 4.1
- Attack Vector: Local
- Attack Complexity: High
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: None
- Availability Impact: None
- Remediation Level: Official Fix
- Report Confidence: Confirmed
Technical Details of CVE-2020-16941
The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Microsoft SharePoint Server and Foundation.
Vulnerability Description
- The flaw allows unauthorized disclosure of folder paths during page rendering.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016 (Version 16.0.0)
- 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)
- Platforms: x64-based Systems and Unknown
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers need access to specific SharePoint pages to exploit the vulnerability.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to address the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices:
- Regularly monitor and update SharePoint servers to prevent future vulnerabilities.
- Implement access controls to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive information.
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and mitigate potential risks.
- Educate users on safe browsing practices and security awareness.
- Backup critical data to ensure quick recovery in case of a security incident.
- Stay informed about security advisories and patches released by Microsoft.
- Consider implementing additional security measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
- Engage in ongoing security training and awareness programs for IT staff.
Patching and Updates
- Microsoft has released a security update to address the vulnerability in affected versions of SharePoint Server and Foundation.