CVE-2020-5212 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-5212 affecting NetHack before 3.6.5. Discover the buffer overflow vulnerability, its impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
NetHack MENUCOLOR configuration file option is subject to a buffer overflow.
Understanding CVE-2020-5212
In NetHack before 3.6.5, an extremely long value for the MENUCOLOR configuration file option can cause a buffer overflow leading to a crash or remote code execution/privilege escalation.
What is CVE-2020-5212?
- Vulnerability in NetHack MENUCOLOR configuration file option before version 3.6.5
- Buffer overflow due to excessively long MENUCOLOR value
- Impact: crash, remote code execution, or privilege escalation
The Impact of CVE-2020-5212
- CVSS v3.1 Base Score: 5 (Medium Severity)
- Attack Complexity: High
- Attack Vector: Local
- Privileges Required: Low
- User Interaction: Required
- Scope: Changed
- Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: Low
Technical Details of CVE-2020-5212
Vulnerability Description
- Buffer overflow vulnerability in MENUCOLOR configuration file option
- Can result in system crash or unauthorized code execution
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: NetHack
- Vendor: NetHack
- Versions Affected: < 3.6.5
Exploitation Mechanism
- Requires the presence of NetHack installed suid/sgid
- Shared systems allowing users to upload configuration files are vulnerable
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade NetHack to version 3.6.5
- Avoid running NetHack with elevated privileges
- Restrict user access to configuration files
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and apply security patches
- Implement principle of least privilege to limit system access
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and updates
- Apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities