CVE-2020-8015 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-8015, a local privilege escalation vulnerability in the exim package in openSUSE Factory, allowing attackers to escalate from user mail to root. Find out the impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps.
A UNIX Symbolic Link (Symlink) Following vulnerability in the packaging of exim in openSUSE Factory allows local attackers to escalate from user mail to root. This vulnerability affects openSUSE Factory exim versions prior to 4.93.0.4-3.1.
Understanding CVE-2020-8015
This CVE involves a local privilege escalation vulnerability in the exim package in openSUSE Factory, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges from user mail to root.
What is CVE-2020-8015?
CVE-2020-8015 is a vulnerability that arises from improper handling of symbolic links in the exim package in openSUSE Factory, enabling local attackers to elevate their privileges from user mail to root.
The Impact of CVE-2020-8015
The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH, with a CVSS base score of 8.4. It can lead to local attackers gaining root privileges on affected systems, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-8015
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is due to a UNIX Symbolic Link (Symlink) Following issue in the packaging of exim in openSUSE Factory, allowing local attackers to escalate privileges from user mail to root.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Factory
- Vendor: openSUSE
- Affected Version: exim < 4.93.0.4-3.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited locally by manipulating symbolic links in the exim package, enabling attackers to gain root access from a user mail context.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-8015, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update exim to version 4.93.0.4-3.1 or later to patch the vulnerability.
- Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities indicating privilege escalation attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user permissions.
- Regularly review and update security configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches promptly to ensure that known vulnerabilities are mitigated effectively.