CVE-2020-7666 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2020-7666 article provides insights into a vulnerability affecting the package github.com/u-root/u-root/pkg/cpio, leading to arbitrary file write via archive extraction (Zip Slip).

Understanding CVE-2020-7666

This vulnerability, known as 'Arbitrary File Write via Archive Extraction (Zip Slip),' poses a significant risk to systems using the cpio package.

What is CVE-2020-7666?

CVE-2020-7666 is a vulnerability that impacts all versions of the github.com/u-root/u-root/pkg/cpio package. It allows for leading, non-leading relative path traversal attacks and symlink-based path traversal attacks during cpio file extraction.

The Impact of CVE-2020-7666

The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.5, categorizing it as high severity. It can lead to arbitrary file write operations, potentially compromising the integrity of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-7666

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in github.com/u-root/u-root/pkg/cpio allows attackers to perform leading, non-leading relative path traversal attacks and symlink-based path traversal attacks during file extraction, leading to arbitrary file write operations.

Affected Systems and Versions

Package: github.com/u-root/u-root/pkg/cpio
Version: 0 (unspecified)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited through leading and non-leading relative path traversal attacks and symlink-based path traversal attacks during cpio file extraction.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-7666, immediate steps and long-term security practices are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the affected package to a secure version if available.
Implement input validation to prevent path traversal attacks.
Monitor file operations for suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software packages to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits to identify and mitigate similar risks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates for the cpio package and apply patches promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.