CVE-2020-7254 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

McAfee Advanced Threat Defense (ATD) 4.x prior to 4.8.2 is affected by a Privilege Escalation vulnerability in the command line interface, allowing local users to execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2020-7254

This CVE involves a high-severity Privilege Escalation vulnerability in McAfee Advanced Threat Defense (ATD) that impacts versions prior to 4.8.2.

What is CVE-2020-7254?

The vulnerability allows local users to run arbitrary code through improper access controls on the sudo command in McAfee Advanced Threat Defense (ATD) 4.x before version 4.8.2.

The Impact of CVE-2020-7254

CVSS Base Score: 7.7 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: High
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: Low
Scope: Changed
User Interaction: None

Technical Details of CVE-2020-7254

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in McAfee Advanced Threat Defense (ATD) 4.x before 4.8.2 allows local users to escalate privileges and execute unauthorized code via the sudo command.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: McAfee Advanced Threat Defense (ATD)
Vendor: McAfee, LLC
Affected Versions: All versions prior to 4.8.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by local users manipulating the sudo command due to inadequate access controls in McAfee Advanced Threat Defense (ATD) 4.x.

Mitigation and Prevention

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

Immediate Steps to Take

Update McAfee Advanced Threat Defense (ATD) to version 4.8.2 or later.
Monitor and restrict access to the command line interface.
Implement the principle of least privilege for user accounts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access control policies.
Conduct security training for users on proper command usage and permissions.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by McAfee to address the vulnerability.