CVE-2020-5906 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2020-5906 article provides insights into a privilege escalation vulnerability affecting BIG-IP versions 13.1.0-13.1.3.3, 12.1.0-12.1.5.2, and 11.6.1-11.6.5.2, allowing unauthorized access to scp.blacklist files.

Understanding CVE-2020-5906

This section delves into the details of the CVE-2020-5906 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2020-5906?

CVE-2020-5906 is a privilege escalation vulnerability in BIG-IP systems that fail to enforce access controls for scp.blacklist files, enabling Admin and Resource Admin users to read and overwrite blacklisted files via SCP.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5906

The vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized access and potential data compromise on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5906

Explore the technical aspects of CVE-2020-5906.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in BIG-IP versions 13.1.0-13.1.3.3, 12.1.0-12.1.5.2, and 11.6.1-11.6.5.2 allows privileged users to bypass access controls on scp.blacklist files.

Affected Systems and Versions

BIG-IP versions 13.1.0-13.1.3.3
BIG-IP versions 12.1.0-12.1.5.2
BIG-IP versions 11.6.1-11.6.5.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Admin and Resource Admin users with SCP protocol access can exploit this vulnerability to access and modify blacklisted files.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2020-5906.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches promptly.
Restrict SCP protocol access for Admin and Resource Admin users.
Monitor SCP activity for suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch BIG-IP systems.
Implement least privilege access controls.
Conduct security training for users on SCP best practices.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to address the vulnerability in affected BIG-IP versions.