CVE-2020-5024 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, 11.1, and 11.5 are vulnerable to a denial of service attack due to a hang in the SSL handshake response.

Understanding CVE-2020-5024

This CVE involves a vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows that could allow an unauthenticated attacker to trigger a denial of service by causing a hang in the SSL handshake response.

What is CVE-2020-5024?

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, 11.1, and 11.5 are susceptible to a denial of service attack due to a specific issue in the SSL handshake response mechanism.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5024

The vulnerability poses a high availability impact, with a CVSS base score of 7.5 (High severity) and a temporal score of 6.5 (Medium severity).

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5024

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 9.7, 10.1, 10.5, 11.1, and 11.5 allows an unauthenticated attacker to exploit a hang in the SSL handshake response, leading to a denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 9.7
IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 10.1
IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 10.5
IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 11.1
IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows 11.5

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker to trigger a hang in the SSL handshake response, resulting in a denial of service condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-5024 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the official fix provided by IBM to address the vulnerability.
Monitor IBM's security bulletins for updates and patches related to this CVE.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to prevent unauthorized access to vulnerable systems.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from IBM regarding IBM DB2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows.