CVE-2020-7257 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-7257, a high-severity privilege escalation vulnerability in McAfee Endpoint Security (ENS) allowing unauthorized file manipulation through symbolic links.
A privilege escalation vulnerability in McAfee Endpoint Security (ENS) for Windows has been identified, allowing local users to manipulate symbolic links during an anti-virus scan to delete and create files beyond their normal permissions.
Understanding CVE-2020-7257
This CVE involves a timing-dependent flaw in McAfee Endpoint Security (ENS) that enables unauthorized file manipulation through symbolic links.
What is CVE-2020-7257?
The vulnerability in McAfee ENS for Windows before version 10.7.0 April 2020 Update permits local users to alter symbolic link targets during an anti-virus scan, leading to unauthorized file actions.
The Impact of CVE-2020-7257
The vulnerability's high severity rating (CVSS base score of 8.4) stems from its potential for local privilege escalation and file manipulation by users with limited permissions.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-7257
This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in McAfee ENS allows local users to exploit symbolic links during an anti-virus scan, enabling them to delete and create files outside their usual access rights.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: McAfee Endpoint Security (ENS)
- Vendor: McAfee LLC
- Versions Affected: Prior to 10.7.0 April 2020 Update
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Local
- Privileges Required: Low
- Scope: Changed
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-7257 involves immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update McAfee ENS to version 10.7.0 April 2020 Update or later.
- Monitor and restrict user permissions to minimize the impact of privilege escalation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and update security configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on safe computing practices to mitigate potential risks.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches and updates provided by McAfee to address the vulnerability effectively.