CVE-2020-8942 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

An arbitrary memory read vulnerability in Asylo versions up to 0.6.0 allows an untrusted attacker to exploit the enc_untrusted_read function, potentially leading to memory disclosure within secure enclaves.

Understanding CVE-2020-8942

This CVE involves an unchecked buffer overrun in the enc_untrusted_read function in Asylo versions up to 0.6.0.

What is CVE-2020-8942?

This vulnerability allows an untrusted attacker to read memory locations outside the intended buffer size, including memory addresses within secure enclaves, by exploiting the enc_untrusted_read function.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8942

CVSS Base Score: 5.3 (Medium)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: High
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: Low
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Availability Impact: None

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8942

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an unchecked parameter size in the enc_untrusted_read function, allowing an attacker to read memory beyond the intended buffer size.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Asylo
Vendor: Google LLC
Affected Versions: Up to 0.6.0

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker can exploit the vulnerability by making a call to enc_untrusted_read with an unchecked parameter size, leading to memory disclosure within secure enclaves.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-8942, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Asylo to a version beyond commit b1d120a2c7d7446d2cc58d517e20a1b184b82200.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to validate input sizes and prevent buffer overflows.
Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the vendor to fix the vulnerability and enhance system security.