CVE-2020-8494 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Kronos Web Time and Attendance (webTA) 3.8.x and later 3.x versions before 4.0 are vulnerable to privilege escalation.

Understanding CVE-2020-8494

In this CVE, an attacker with specific privileges can gain unauthorized administrative access within the Kronos Web Time and Attendance application.

What is CVE-2020-8494?

The com.threeis.webta.H402editUser servlet in Kronos Web Time and Attendance allows attackers with Timekeeper, Master Timekeeper, or HR Admin privileges to escalate their access within the application.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8494

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level. It can lead to unauthorized administrative access, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8494

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The com.threeis.webta.H402editUser servlet in Kronos Web Time and Attendance enables attackers with specific privileges to gain unauthorized administrative access through various parameters.

Affected Systems and Versions

Kronos Web Time and Attendance (webTA) 3.8.x and later 3.x versions before 4.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Impact: High on Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-8494 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches promptly
Restrict access to vulnerable servlets
Monitor and audit user activities

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software
Conduct security training for employees

Patching and Updates

Ensure all systems are updated with the latest patches and security fixes