CVE-2020-8581 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-8581, a vulnerability in Clustered Data ONTAP versions prior to 9.3P20 and 9.5 that allows unauthorized data modification. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
Clustered Data ONTAP versions prior to 9.3P20 and 9.5 are susceptible to a vulnerability that could allow an authenticated but unauthorized attacker to overwrite arbitrary data when VMware vStorage support is enabled.
Understanding CVE-2020-8581
This CVE involves a vulnerability in Clustered Data ONTAP versions prior to 9.3P20 and 9.5 that could lead to unauthorized data modification.
What is CVE-2020-8581?
Clustered Data ONTAP versions prior to 9.3P20 and 9.5 are at risk of exploitation by authenticated but unauthorized attackers, enabling them to overwrite arbitrary data when VMware vStorage support is active.
The Impact of CVE-2020-8581
The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows attackers to manipulate data without proper authorization, potentially leading to data corruption or loss.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-8581
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Clustered Data ONTAP versions prior to 9.3P20 and 9.5 permits authenticated but unauthorized attackers to overwrite arbitrary data when VMware vStorage support is turned on.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Clustered Data ONTAP
- Versions Affected: Prior to 9.3P20 and 9.5
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated attackers who lack proper authorization, allowing them to modify data when VMware vStorage support is enabled.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-8581 is crucial to maintaining data integrity and security.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Clustered Data ONTAP to version 9.3P20 or 9.5 to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Disable VMware vStorage support if not essential for operations.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor for security advisories and updates from NetApp.
- Implement access controls and authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches and updates provided by NetApp promptly to address known vulnerabilities.