CVE-2020-4839 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

IBM Host firmware for LC-class Systems is vulnerable to a stack-based buffer overflow, potentially leading to a denial of service attack.

Understanding CVE-2020-4839

IBM Host firmware for LC-class Systems is susceptible to a stack-based buffer overflow due to inadequate bounds checking, posing a risk of denial of service.

What is CVE-2020-4839?

The vulnerability in IBM Host firmware for LC-class Systems stems from a stack-based buffer overflow issue, allowing a remote privileged attacker to trigger a denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4839

CVSS Score: 4.9 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Availability Impact: High
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Privileges Required: High
Affected Systems: 8335-GTB, 8335-GTA, 8335-GCA
Vulnerability Description: Improper bounds checking leading to a stack-based buffer overflow
Potential Consequences: Denial of Service

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4839

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a stack-based buffer overflow in IBM Host firmware for LC-class Systems due to inadequate bounds checking.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Products: 8335-GTB, 8335-GTA, 8335-GCA
Vulnerable Version: OP820

Exploitation Mechanism

A remote privileged attacker can exploit the vulnerability by sending specially crafted requests to the affected system, triggering a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
Monitor IBM's security bulletins for updates and patches.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all firmware and software components.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

IBM has released official fixes to remediate the vulnerability.