CVE-2020-8875 : What You Need to Know

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Parallels Desktop 15.1.2-47123. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system to exploit this vulnerability. The flaw exists within the IOCTL handler, leading to a lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, resulting in a write past the end of an allocated buffer. This allows an attacker to escalate privileges and execute code in the kernel context.

Understanding CVE-2020-8875

This CVE affects Parallels Desktop version 15.1.2-47123.

What is CVE-2020-8875?

CVE-2020-8875 is a vulnerability that enables local attackers to elevate privileges on Parallels Desktop installations by exploiting a flaw in the IOCTL handler.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8875

The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.0 base score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level. It has a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low privileges required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8875

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from improper validation of user-supplied data, allowing attackers to write beyond allocated buffers and execute code in the kernel context.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Parallels Desktop
Vendor: Parallels
Version: 15.1.2-47123

Exploitation Mechanism

The flaw can be exploited by local attackers who can execute low-privileged code on the target system, leveraging the lack of data validation to escalate privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-8875 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Parallels promptly.
Monitor and restrict low-privileged code execution on systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement least privilege access controls to limit potential damage from privilege escalation attacks.
Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and mitigate similar issues.
Stay informed about security advisories and best practices to enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running Parallels Desktop are updated with the latest patches and security fixes to mitigate the risk of privilege escalation attacks.