CVE-2020-8103 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability in the improper handling of symbolic links in Bitdefender Antivirus Free can allow an unprivileged user to substitute a quarantined file and restore it to a privileged location.

Understanding CVE-2020-8103

Bitdefender Antivirus Free versions prior to 1.0.17.178 are affected by a Link Resolution Privilege Escalation Vulnerability.

What is CVE-2020-8103?

The vulnerability in Bitdefender Antivirus Free allows an unprivileged user to manipulate quarantined files, potentially leading to privilege escalation.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8103

CVSS Base Score: 7.2 (High)
Severity: High
Attack Vector: Physical
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Changed
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8103

The technical aspects of the vulnerability in Bitdefender Antivirus Free.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of symbolic links, enabling unauthorized file restoration to privileged locations.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Bitdefender Antivirus Free
Vendor: Bitdefender
Affected Versions: Prior to 1.0.17.178

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows an unprivileged user to substitute a quarantined file and restore it to a privileged location, potentially leading to privilege escalation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2020-8103.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Bitdefender Antivirus Free to version 1.0.17.178 or newer.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update antivirus software to the latest versions.
Educate users on safe file handling practices.

Patching and Updates

An automatic update to Bitdefender Antivirus Free version 1.0.17.178 or newer resolves the vulnerability.