CVE-2020-2027 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-2027, a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in the authd component of the PAN-OS management server, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with root privileges. Find mitigation steps and best practices for securing your systems.
A buffer overflow vulnerability in the authd component of the PAN-OS management server allows authenticated administrators to disrupt system processes and potentially execute arbitrary code with root privileges. This CVE affects various versions of PAN-OS.
Understanding CVE-2020-2027
This CVE involves a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in the PAN-OS management server, impacting multiple versions of the software.
What is CVE-2020-2027?
CVE-2020-2027 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in the authd component of the PAN-OS management server, enabling authenticated administrators to interfere with system processes and potentially run unauthorized code with root privileges.
The Impact of CVE-2020-2027
The vulnerability poses a high severity risk with a CVSS base score of 7.2, allowing attackers to disrupt system availability, compromise confidentiality and integrity, and execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-2027
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a buffer overflow in the authd component of the PAN-OS management server, granting authenticated users the ability to execute malicious code with elevated privileges.
Affected Systems and Versions
- PAN-OS 7.1 and PAN-OS 8.0 are affected in all versions.
- PAN-OS 8.1 versions earlier than 8.1.13 are vulnerable.
- PAN-OS 9.0 versions earlier than 9.0.7 are at risk.
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated administrators to disrupt system processes and execute unauthorized code with root privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2020-2027 with the following measures:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update to PAN-OS 8.1.13, 9.0.7, or later versions to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Follow best practices for securing the PAN-OS management interface.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update PAN-OS to the latest versions to ensure security patches are applied.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Ensure all PAN-OS installations are updated to versions that address the vulnerability.