CVE-2020-4077 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

In Electron before versions 7.2.4, 8.2.4, and 9.0.0-beta21, a context isolation bypass vulnerability exists, allowing code in the main world context to access the isolated Electron context and execute privileged actions.

Understanding CVE-2020-4077

This CVE involves a context isolation bypass via contextBridge in Electron.

What is CVE-2020-4077?

CVE-2020-4077 is a vulnerability in Electron versions prior to 7.2.4, 8.2.4, and 9.0.0-beta21 that enables unauthorized access to the isolated Electron context from the main world context in the renderer.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4077

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.7, indicating a high severity issue with low attack complexity and privileges required. It can lead to integrity impact, allowing attackers to perform privileged actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4077

This section provides more in-depth technical details of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows code running in the main world context to breach the isolated Electron context, compromising security measures like

contextIsolation

and

contextBridge

.

Affected Systems and Versions

Electron versions before 7.2.4, 8.2.4, and 9.0.0-beta21 are affected.
Apps utilizing both

contextIsolation

and

contextBridge

are vulnerable.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by running malicious code in the main world context to access and manipulate the isolated Electron context, bypassing security restrictions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-4077, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Electron to versions 7.2.4, 8.2.4, or 9.0.0-beta21, where the issue is fixed.
Review and modify code that relies on

contextIsolation

and

contextBridge

to enhance security.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Electron and other dependencies to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent context isolation bypasses and other security threats.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Electron to apply patches promptly.