CVE-2020-26266 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

In affected versions of TensorFlow, uninitialized memory access in Eigen types can lead to the use of uninitialized values during code execution. This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 4.4.

Understanding CVE-2020-26266

This CVE involves uninitialized memory access in Eigen types within TensorFlow, potentially causing issues during code execution.

What is CVE-2020-26266?

In certain cases, a saved model in affected TensorFlow versions can trigger the use of uninitialized values due to tensor buffers being filled with default values but failing to initialize quantized floating point types in Eigen.

The Impact of CVE-2020-26266

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 4.4, indicating a medium severity issue with low attack complexity and impact on availability and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-26266

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from uninitialized memory access in Eigen types, potentially leading to the use of uninitialized values during code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

TensorFlow versions < 1.15.5
TensorFlow versions >= 2.0.0, < 2.0.4
TensorFlow versions >= 2.1.0, < 2.1.3
TensorFlow versions >= 2.2.0, < 2.2.2
TensorFlow versions >= 2.3.0, < 2.3.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by utilizing saved models in TensorFlow that trigger the use of uninitialized values due to improper initialization of quantized floating point types in Eigen.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-26266, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update TensorFlow to versions 1.15.5, 2.0.4, 2.1.3, 2.2.2, 2.3.2, or later.
Monitor for any unusual behavior in TensorFlow applications.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update TensorFlow to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar memory access issues.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of patches and updates provided by TensorFlow to mitigate the vulnerability.