CVE-2020-4851 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Spectrum Scale versions 5.0.0 to 5.0.5.5 and 5.1.0 to 5.1.0.2 are vulnerable to log file poisoning, potentially impacting support and development efforts.

Understanding CVE-2020-4851

IBM Spectrum Scale is susceptible to a local user exploiting log files, posing a risk to system integrity and confidentiality.

What is CVE-2020-4851?

IBM Spectrum Scale versions 5.0.0 to 5.0.5.5 and 5.1.0 to 5.1.0.2 are at risk of log file manipulation by a local user.
The vulnerability could lead to compromised support and development activities.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4851

CVSS Base Score: 4 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: None
Availability Impact: None
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Remediation Level: Official Fix
Report Confidence: Confirmed

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4851

IBM Spectrum Scale vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows local users to manipulate log files, potentially disrupting support and development processes.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products: IBM Spectrum Scale
Versions: 5.0.0, 5.0.5.4, 5.1.0, 5.1.0.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-4851.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM.
Monitor log files for any suspicious activities.
Restrict access to critical system files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch IBM Spectrum Scale installations.
Educate users on secure log file management practices.
Implement least privilege access controls.

Patching and Updates

Ensure all IBM Spectrum Scale instances are updated with the latest patches and security fixes.