CVE-2020-24046 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A sandbox escape issue in TitanHQ SpamTitan Gateway 7.07 allows an authenticated attacker to escalate privileges to root by modifying user properties.

Understanding CVE-2020-24046

This CVE involves a vulnerability in TitanHQ SpamTitan Gateway 7.07 that enables an attacker to bypass restrictions and gain root access.

What is CVE-2020-24046?

The vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker to modify user properties, granting them root access by exploiting the Backup/Import Backup functionality.

The Impact of CVE-2020-24046

The exploit enables an attacker to elevate privileges from a restricted shell to a root shell, compromising the security of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-24046

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue allows an attacker to change user properties, granting root access by manipulating system files through the Backup/Import Backup functionality.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: TitanHQ SpamTitan Gateway 7.07
Vendor: TitanHQ
Version: 7.07

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker obtains /var/tmp/admin.passwd file after executing a Backup operation
Modifies the file to change user GUID to 0 (root) and shell to /bin/sh
Imports the modified file to gain root access upon next login

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect systems from CVE-2020-24046 with these security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable Backup/Import Backup functionality if not essential
Monitor system files for unauthorized changes

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch TitanHQ SpamTitan Gateway
Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication

Patching and Updates

Apply vendor-supplied patches promptly to address the vulnerability