CVE-2020-2008 : Security Advisory and Response

An OS command injection and external control of filename vulnerability in Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS allows authenticated administrators to execute code with root privileges or delete arbitrary system files, impacting system integrity or causing a denial of service condition.

Understanding CVE-2020-2008

This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS that can be exploited by authenticated administrators to execute malicious code or delete system files.

What is CVE-2020-2008?

Vulnerability Type: OS command injection and external control of filename
Vendor: Palo Alto Networks
Affected Versions: PAN-OS 7.1, 8.0, and 8.1 versions earlier than 8.1.14

The Impact of CVE-2020-2008

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.2 (High severity) with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It requires high privileges and can be exploited over a network without user interaction.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-2008

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Allows authenticated administrators to execute code with root privileges or delete system files

Affected Systems and Versions

PAN-OS 7.1, 8.0, and 8.1 versions earlier than 8.1.14

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: High
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2020-2008.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to PAN-OS 8.1.14 or later versions
Follow best practices for securing the PAN-OS management interface

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch PAN-OS installations
Implement network segmentation and access controls

Patching and Updates

PAN-OS 8.0 is end-of-life and no longer covered by security policies
PAN-OS 7.1 is on extended support for critical security fixes only