CVE-2020-7280 : What You Need to Know

A Privilege Escalation vulnerability in McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) prior to 8.8 Patch 15 allows local users to manipulate symbolic links during daily DAT updates, potentially leading to unauthorized file deletion and creation.

Understanding CVE-2020-7280

This CVE involves a timing-dependent flaw that could be exploited by local users to escalate privileges on affected systems.

What is CVE-2020-7280?

The vulnerability in McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) before version 8.8 Patch 15 enables local users to alter symbolic links during daily DAT updates, granting them the ability to delete and create files they wouldn't typically have permission to access.

The Impact of CVE-2020-7280

The vulnerability poses a high risk, with a CVSS base score of 7.8, affecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system. It requires low privileges and no user interaction, making it a critical issue.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-7280

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows local users to exploit symbolic links during McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) DAT updates, leading to unauthorized file manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE)
Vendor: McAfee, LLC
Versions Affected: < 8.8 Patch 15

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Impact: High severity on confidentiality, integrity, and availability

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-7280 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) to version 8.8 Patch 15 or later.
Monitor and restrict access to vulnerable systems.
Educate users on safe computing practices.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access.
Regularly review and update security configurations.
Conduct security training and awareness programs for employees.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates promptly.
Stay informed about security advisories from McAfee and other relevant sources.