CVE-2020-7457 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-7457, a race condition vulnerability in FreeBSD versions that could allow malicious code execution. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
In FreeBSD 12.1-STABLE before r359565, 12.1-RELEASE before p7, 11.4-STABLE before r362975, 11.4-RELEASE before p1, and 11.3-RELEASE before p11, a race condition in the IPV6_2292PKTOPTIONS socket option set handler could allow a malicious application to execute code.
Understanding CVE-2020-7457
This CVE involves a race condition vulnerability in FreeBSD versions, potentially leading to code execution.
What is CVE-2020-7457?
A race condition in the IPV6_2292PKTOPTIONS socket option set handler in FreeBSD versions could be exploited by a malicious application to alter memory after being freed, potentially resulting in code execution.
The Impact of CVE-2020-7457
The vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, posing a significant security risk.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-7457
This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The missing synchronization in the IPV6_2292PKTOPTIONS socket option set handler in FreeBSD versions contained a race condition, enabling unauthorized memory modification post deallocation, potentially leading to code execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
- FreeBSD 12.1-RELEASE before p7
- FreeBSD 11.4-RELEASE before p1
- FreeBSD 11.3-RELEASE before p11
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability allows a malicious application to manipulate memory after it has been freed, creating an opportunity for unauthorized code execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-7457 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary patches provided by FreeBSD promptly.
- Monitor security advisories for updates and follow best practices for secure coding.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch FreeBSD systems to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent race conditions and memory manipulation.
- Conduct regular security audits and assessments to identify and address potential risks.
- Employ network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential exploits.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that FreeBSD systems are updated with the latest patches and security fixes to address CVE-2020-7457 effectively.