CVE-2020-20231 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Mikrotik RouterOs through stable version 6.48.3 has a memory corruption vulnerability in the /nova/bin/detnet process, allowing an authenticated remote attacker to trigger a Denial of Service (NULL pointer dereference).

Understanding CVE-2020-20231

This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in Mikrotik RouterOs that can be exploited by an authenticated remote attacker.

What is CVE-2020-20231?

The vulnerability in the /nova/bin/detnet process of Mikrotik RouterOs up to version 6.48.3 enables a remote attacker to cause a Denial of Service by exploiting a memory corruption issue.

The Impact of CVE-2020-20231

The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to a Denial of Service condition, potentially disrupting network operations and services.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-20231

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Mikrotik RouterOs through version 6.48.3 allows an authenticated remote attacker to exploit a memory corruption issue in the /nova/bin/detnet process, resulting in a NULL pointer dereference and a Denial of Service.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Mikrotik RouterOs
Affected Version: Up to stable version 6.48.3

Exploitation Mechanism

An authenticated remote attacker can exploit the vulnerability by triggering the memory corruption issue in the /nova/bin/detnet process, leading to a NULL pointer dereference and subsequent Denial of Service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-20231 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Mikrotik promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and firmware.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all Mikrotik RouterOs installations are updated to versions beyond 6.48.3 to mitigate the vulnerability and prevent exploitation.