CVE-2020-16995 : What You Need to Know

Network Watcher Agent Virtual Machine Extension for Linux Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability was published on October 16, 2020, by Microsoft.

Understanding CVE-2020-16995

An elevation of privilege vulnerability in Network Watcher Agent virtual machine extension for Linux allows attackers to execute code with elevated privileges.

What is CVE-2020-16995?

This CVE identifies a security flaw in the Network Watcher Agent virtual machine extension for Linux that enables attackers to gain elevated privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16995

The vulnerability poses a high severity risk, with a CVSS base score of 7.8, allowing attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16995

The vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows attackers to execute code with elevated privileges.
Attackers need user access on the affected virtual machine to exploit the vulnerability.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Microsoft
Product: Network Watcher Agent virtual machine extension for Linux
Versions Affected: All versions up to the publication date
Platforms: Unknown

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by being present as a user on the affected virtual machine.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the security update provided by Microsoft to correct the privilege execution.
Monitor and restrict user access to virtual machines to prevent unauthorized exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and extensions to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Implement least privilege access controls to limit user capabilities and reduce the attack surface.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from Microsoft and promptly apply patches to secure systems.