CVE-2020-25816 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

HashiCorp Vault and Vault Enterprise versions 1.0 and newer allowed leases created with a batch token to outlive their TTL due to incorrect expiration time scheduling. Fixed in versions 1.4.7 and 1.5.4.

Understanding CVE-2020-25816

This CVE involves a vulnerability in HashiCorp Vault and Vault Enterprise versions 1.0 and above that allowed leases created with a batch token to exceed their TTL.

What is CVE-2020-25816?

HashiCorp Vault and Vault Enterprise versions 1.0 and newer had a flaw that caused leases created with a batch token to outlive their TTL because the expiration time was not scheduled correctly.

The Impact of CVE-2020-25816

This vulnerability could potentially allow unauthorized access or exposure of sensitive data due to leases not expiring as expected.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-25816

This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in HashiCorp Vault and Vault Enterprise versions 1.0 and above allowed leases created with a batch token to outlive their TTL due to incorrect expiration time scheduling.

Affected Systems and Versions

HashiCorp Vault and Vault Enterprise versions 1.0 and newer

Exploitation Mechanism

Leases created with a batch token could exceed their TTL, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data exposure.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here are the steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2020-25816 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to HashiCorp Vault versions 1.4.7 or 1.5.4, where the issue has been fixed.
Monitor and revoke any leases that have outlived their TTL.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access control policies within HashiCorp Vault.
Conduct periodic audits to ensure proper lease management.

Patching and Updates

Apply the necessary patches or updates provided by HashiCorp to address the vulnerability.