CVE-2020-7283 : Security Advisory and Response

A Privilege Escalation vulnerability in McAfee Total Protection (MTP) before version 16.0.R26 allows local users to manipulate symbolic links to access unauthorized locations and execute malicious scripts.

Understanding CVE-2020-7283

This CVE involves a high-severity Privilege Escalation vulnerability in McAfee Total Protection (MTP) that impacts local users.

What is CVE-2020-7283?

The vulnerability allows local users to create and edit files in locations they would not typically have access to by exploiting symbolic link manipulation through malicious scripts or programs.

The Impact of CVE-2020-7283

CVSS Base Score: 7.5 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: Low
Scope: Changed

Technical Details of CVE-2020-7283

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in McAfee Total Protection (MTP) before version 16.0.R26 allows local users to exploit symbolic links to gain unauthorized access and execute arbitrary scripts.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: McAfee Total Protection (MTP)
Affected Version: 16.0.R26

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation involves running a malicious script or program on the target machine to manipulate symbolic links and access restricted locations.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-7283, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update McAfee Total Protection (MTP) to version 16.0.R26 or later.
Monitor and restrict user permissions to prevent unauthorized file access.
Implement file system monitoring to detect suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update security software and patches.
Educate users on safe computing practices and the risks of running unknown scripts.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.