CVE-2020-8950 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-8950, a privilege escalation vulnerability in Radeon AMD User Experience Program Launcher on Windows. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation method, and mitigation steps.
The AUEPLauncher service in Radeon AMD User Experience Program Launcher through 1.0.0.1 on Windows allows elevation of privilege by placing a crafted file in %PROGRAMDATA%\AMD\PPC\upload and then creating a symbolic link in %PROGRAMDATA%\AMD\PPC\temp that points to an arbitrary folder with an arbitrary file name.
Understanding CVE-2020-8950
This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in the AUEPLauncher service in Radeon AMD User Experience Program Launcher on Windows.
What is CVE-2020-8950?
The vulnerability allows an attacker to elevate privileges by manipulating files and creating symbolic links in specific directories.
The Impact of CVE-2020-8950
Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and control over the affected system, potentially resulting in further compromise or data theft.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-8950
This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The AUEPLauncher service in Radeon AMD User Experience Program Launcher through version 1.0.0.1 on Windows is susceptible to privilege escalation through file manipulation and symbolic link creation.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions affected: All versions up to and including 1.0.0.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by placing a specially crafted file in a specific directory and creating a symbolic link to an arbitrary folder with a specific file name.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-8950, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Monitor %PROGRAMDATA%\AMD\PPC\upload and %PROGRAMDATA%\AMD\PPC\temp directories for suspicious files and symbolic links.
- Implement principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and apply security patches.
- Conduct security training to educate users on safe file handling practices.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the Radeon AMD User Experience Program Launcher is updated to the latest version to mitigate the privilege escalation vulnerability.