CVE-2020-4075 : What You Need to Know

In Electron before versions 7.2.4, 8.2.4, and 9.0.0-beta21, arbitrary local file read is possible by defining unsafe window options on a child window opened via window.open. This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.8.

Understanding CVE-2020-4075

This CVE involves arbitrary file read via window-open IPC in Electron.

What is CVE-2020-4075?

CVE-2020-4075 is a security vulnerability in Electron that allows arbitrary local file read by defining unsafe window options on a child window opened via window.open.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4075

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.8, with high confidentiality impact and no integrity impact. It requires no privileges and has a high attack complexity.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4075

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Electron before versions 7.2.4, 8.2.4, and 9.0.0-beta21 allows arbitrary local file read by defining unsafe window options on a child window opened via window.open.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected versions include Electron >= 9.0.0-beta.0, <= 9.0.0-beta.20
Also affected are versions >= 8.0.0, < 8.2.4
Versions < 7.2.4 are impacted

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by defining unsafe window options on a child window opened via window.open, enabling arbitrary local file read.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-4075 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to fixed versions 9.0.0-beta.21, 8.2.4, or 7.2.4
Ensure to call

event.preventDefault()

on all new-window events where the

url

or

options

are unexpected

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Electron to the latest secure versions
Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Electron to address this vulnerability