CVE-2020-5406 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

VMware Tanzu Application Service for VMs, 2.6.x versions prior to 2.6.18, 2.7.x versions prior to 2.7.11, and 2.8.x versions prior to 2.8.5, includes a version of PCF Autoscaling that writes database connection properties to its log, potentially exposing sensitive information.

Understanding CVE-2020-5406

This CVE involves a vulnerability in VMware Tanzu Application Service for VMs that could lead to unauthorized access to database credentials.

What is CVE-2020-5406?

CVE-2020-5406 is a security vulnerability in VMware Tanzu Application Service for VMs that allows a malicious user to gain unauthorized access to the database by exploiting the logging of database credentials by PCF Autoscaling.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5406

The vulnerability could result in unauthorized access to sensitive database information, potentially leading to data breaches and unauthorized actions within the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5406

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

PCF Autoscaling in VMware Tanzu Application Service for VMs logs database connection properties, including usernames and passwords, which can be accessed by unauthorized users.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected versions include 2.6.x prior to 2.6.18, 2.7.x prior to 2.7.11, and 2.8.x prior to 2.8.5 of VMware Tanzu Application Service for VMs.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by accessing the logs generated by PCF Autoscaling, which contain sensitive database credentials.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-5406 is crucial to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade VMware Tanzu Application Service for VMs to versions 2.6.18, 2.7.11, or 2.8.5 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to log files containing database credentials.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure logging practices to avoid exposing sensitive information in logs.
Regularly review and update security configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by VMware to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.