CVE-2020-3979 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

InstallBuilder for Qt Windows (versions prior to 20.7.0) has a vulnerability that could allow an attacker to execute malicious code through a planted library.

Understanding CVE-2020-3979

InstallBuilder for Qt Windows (versions prior to 20.7.0) has a security vulnerability due to the way it handles plugins, potentially allowing code execution.

What is CVE-2020-3979?

InstallBuilder for Qt Windows (versions prior to 20.7.0) has a flaw that enables non-admin users to write to a predictable plugin location, leading to potential code execution by loading a malicious library.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3979

The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to insert a malicious library, resulting in code execution within the security context of the installer.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3979

InstallBuilder for Qt Windows (versions prior to 20.7.0) vulnerability details.

Vulnerability Description

Vulnerability Type: Uncontrolled Search Path Element
The flaw allows non-admin users to write to a predictable plugin location, potentially leading to code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: VMware InstallBuilder
Versions Affected: All InstallBuilder for Qt versions prior to version 20.7.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can plant a malicious library in the writable plugin location, which may be loaded during initialization, enabling code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent CVE-2020-3979.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to version 20.7.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid running the installer with elevated privileges.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user permissions.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by VMware to address the vulnerability.