CVE-2020-17391 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This vulnerability in Parallels Desktop 15.1.3-47255 allows local attackers to disclose information by exploiting a flaw in the prl_hypervisor kext.

Understanding CVE-2020-17391

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Parallels Desktop 15.1.3-47255 that can be exploited by local attackers to disclose sensitive information.

What is CVE-2020-17391?

The vulnerability allows local attackers to obtain information on affected installations of Parallels Desktop 15.1.3-47255 by executing low-privileged code on the target system.

The Impact of CVE-2020-17391

CVSS Base Score: 6.5 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Confidentiality Impact: High
Privileges Required: Low
Scope: Changed
Vector String: CVSS:3.0/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:N/A:N

Technical Details of CVE-2020-17391

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw exists within the handler for HOST_IOCTL_INIT_HYPERVISOR in the prl_hypervisor kext, exposing a dangerous method or function to unprivileged users.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Parallels Desktop
Affected Version: 15.1.3-47255

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can leverage this vulnerability along with other security flaws to execute arbitrary code in the kernel context.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-17391 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Parallels promptly.
Monitor for any unusual system behavior that could indicate exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user capabilities.
Regularly update and patch software to mitigate known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Parallels Desktop is updated to the latest version to address this vulnerability.