CVE-2020-6794 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Thunderbird versions prior to 68.5 that could expose stored passwords if a user saved passwords before Thunderbird 60 and later set a master password.

Understanding CVE-2020-6794

This vulnerability allows access to unencrypted copies of previously stored passwords in Thunderbird.

What is CVE-2020-6794?

If a user saved passwords before Thunderbird 60 and then set a master password, an unencrypted copy of these passwords remains accessible due to the older stored password file not being deleted when data was transferred to a new format starting in Thunderbird 60.

The Impact of CVE-2020-6794

This vulnerability could lead to the exposure of stored password data beyond user expectations.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-6794

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the failure to delete older stored password files when transitioning to a new format in Thunderbird 60, allowing access to unencrypted passwords.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Thunderbird
Vendor: Mozilla
Versions Affected: < 68.5

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability occurs when a user saves passwords before Thunderbird 60 and later sets a master password, granting access to unencrypted copies of these passwords.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Thunderbird to version 68.5 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid saving passwords in older versions of Thunderbird before setting a master password.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions to ensure security patches are applied.
Implement strong password management practices and consider using password managers.

Patching and Updates

Ensure Thunderbird is regularly updated to the latest version to address security vulnerabilities and protect stored password data.