CVE-2020-26268 : Security Advisory and Response

In affected versions of TensorFlow, the tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst operation can lead to a segmentation fault due to a memory write issue. This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 4.4.

Understanding CVE-2020-26268

This CVE involves a vulnerability in TensorFlow that allows writing to an assumed immutable memory region, leading to a Python interpreter crash.

What is CVE-2020-26268?

The tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst operation in TensorFlow can cause a segmentation fault by attempting to write to a memory area that is assumed to be immutable.

The Impact of CVE-2020-26268

The vulnerability can crash the Python interpreter when the operation writes to a memory area that is supposed to be immutable, leading to a segmentation fault.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-26268

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises when the tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst operation writes to a memory area assumed to be immutable, causing a segmentation fault.

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 problem occurs when the type of the tensor is not an integral type, leading to a crash in the Python interpreter.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-26268, 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 2.4.0
Monitor security advisories for patches and updates

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update TensorFlow and other dependencies
Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory-related vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by TensorFlow promptly to mitigate the vulnerability