CVE-2020-9900 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-9900, a symlink path validation vulnerability in Apple's iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS. Find out how to mitigate the risk and prevent privilege escalation.
An issue existed within the path validation logic for symlinks. This issue was addressed with improved path sanitization. This issue is fixed in iOS 13.6 and iPadOS 13.6, macOS Catalina 10.15.6, tvOS 13.4.8, watchOS 6.2.8. A local attacker may be able to elevate their privileges.
Understanding CVE-2020-9900
This CVE identifies a vulnerability related to path validation logic for symlinks in Apple products.
What is CVE-2020-9900?
CVE-2020-9900 is a security vulnerability in Apple's iOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS that could allow a local attacker to elevate their privileges by exploiting a flaw in symlink path validation.
The Impact of CVE-2020-9900
The vulnerability could be exploited by a local attacker to escalate their privileges on affected Apple devices, potentially leading to unauthorized access or control.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-9900
This section provides more in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from inadequate path validation logic for symlinks, which could be exploited by a local attacker.
Affected Systems and Versions
- iOS: Less than iOS 13.6 and iPadOS 13.6
- macOS: Less than macOS Catalina 10.15.6
- tvOS: Less than tvOS 13.4.8
- watchOS: Less than watchOS 6.2.8
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability allows a local attacker to manipulate symlinks to gain elevated privileges on the affected Apple devices.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2020-9900, follow these steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected devices to the fixed versions: iOS 13.6 and iPadOS 13.6, macOS Catalina 10.15.6, tvOS 13.4.8, watchOS 6.2.8
- Monitor for any unauthorized access or privilege escalation attempts
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update all Apple devices to the latest software versions
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit potential attack surfaces
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches promptly as released by Apple to mitigate known vulnerabilities