CVE-2020-8026 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A Incorrect Default Permissions vulnerability in the packaging of inn in openSUSE Leap 15.2, openSUSE Tumbleweed, openSUSE Leap 15.1 allows local attackers to escalate their privileges to root.

Understanding CVE-2020-8026

This CVE involves an Incorrect Default Permissions vulnerability in the inn package in multiple openSUSE versions.

What is CVE-2020-8026?

CVE-2020-8026 is a vulnerability in the inn package in openSUSE Leap 15.2, openSUSE Tumbleweed, and openSUSE Leap 15.1, allowing local attackers to elevate their privileges to root.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8026

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8.4 (High severity) with a LOW attack complexity and LOCAL attack vector. It can lead to HIGH impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, requiring no special privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8026

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from Incorrect Default Permissions in the inn package, enabling local attackers to gain root privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

openSUSE Leap 15.2 with inn version 2.6.2-lp152.1.26 and earlier
openSUSE Tumbleweed with inn version 2.6.2-4.2 and earlier
openSUSE Leap 15.1 with inn version 2.5.4-lp151.3.3.1 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Local attackers with control of a new user can exploit this vulnerability to escalate their privileges to root.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-8026 with the following measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the patches provided by openSUSE promptly
Monitor for any unauthorized system changes
Restrict user permissions to minimize the impact of potential attacks

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch your systems to address known vulnerabilities
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights

Patching and Updates

Update the inn package to the latest version available
Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches as soon as they are released