CVE-2020-36241 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-36241, a Directory Traversal vulnerability in GNOME gnome-autoar through 0.2.4, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive files. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
autoar-extractor.c in GNOME gnome-autoar through 0.2.4 allows Directory Traversal, potentially leading to extraction of files outside the intended location.
Understanding CVE-2020-36241
This CVE involves a vulnerability in GNOME gnome-autoar that could be exploited for Directory Traversal during file extraction.
What is CVE-2020-36241?
The vulnerability in autoar-extractor.c in GNOME gnome-autoar through version 0.2.4 allows an attacker to perform Directory Traversal by extracting files without proper validation, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The Impact of CVE-2020-36241
The impact of this vulnerability includes the risk of extracting files to unintended locations, potentially allowing an attacker to access, overwrite, or execute arbitrary files on the system.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-36241
This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a lack of validation in autoar-extractor.c, enabling Directory Traversal during file extraction.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected software: GNOME gnome-autoar through version 0.2.4
- The vulnerability impacts systems using GNOME Shell, Nautilus, and other software that utilize gnome-autoar.
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by manipulating file extraction to traverse directories outside the intended location, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive files.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-36241 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update GNOME gnome-autoar to a patched version that addresses the Directory Traversal vulnerability.
- Monitor file extraction activities for any suspicious behavior.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms in file extraction processes.
- Conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify and mitigate similar vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches provided by GNOME to fix the vulnerability in gnome-autoar.