CVE-2020-5876 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-5876, a race condition vulnerability in BIG-IP versions 15.0.0-15.0.1.3, 14.1.0-14.1.2.3, 13.1.0-13.1.3.3, 12.1.0-12.1.5.1, and 11.6.1-11.6.5.1, allowing unencrypted connection attempts to a new configuration sync peer.
A race condition vulnerability exists in BIG-IP versions 15.0.0-15.0.1.3, 14.1.0-14.1.2.3, 13.1.0-13.1.3.3, 12.1.0-12.1.5.1, and 11.6.1-11.6.5.1, allowing unencrypted connection attempts to a new configuration sync peer.
Understanding CVE-2020-5876
This CVE involves a race condition in the BIG-IP system that can lead to unencrypted connection attempts during certain configuration changes.
What is CVE-2020-5876?
A race condition in BIG-IP versions can result in unencrypted connection attempts to a new configuration sync peer, posing a security risk.
The Impact of CVE-2020-5876
The vulnerability could potentially lead to session hijacking, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-5876
This section provides more in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The race condition allows mcpd and other processes to make unencrypted connection attempts when certain configuration changes occur.
Affected Systems and Versions
- BIG-IP versions 15.0.0-15.0.1.3
- BIG-IP versions 14.1.0-14.1.2.3
- BIG-IP versions 13.1.0-13.1.3.3
- BIG-IP versions 12.1.0-12.1.5.1
- BIG-IP versions 11.6.1-11.6.5.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The race condition occurs during changes to the ConfigSync IP address of a peer, addition of a new peer, or when the Traffic Management Microkernel (TMM) first starts up.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from this vulnerability is crucial to maintaining security.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary patches provided by the vendor promptly.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
- Restrict access to critical systems to authorized personnel only.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch systems to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and address potential risks.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all affected systems are updated with the latest patches and security fixes to mitigate the risk of exploitation.