CVE-2020-10701 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-10701, a vulnerability in libvirt API allowing unauthorized users to manipulate QEMU agent response timeout, potentially leading to denial of service. Find mitigation steps here.
A missing authorization flaw in libvirt API allows unprivileged users to potentially trigger a denial of service by adjusting QEMU agent response timeout.
Understanding CVE-2020-10701
What is CVE-2020-10701?
This CVE identifies a missing authorization vulnerability in the libvirt API that enables unprivileged users to manipulate the QEMU agent response timeout, potentially leading to a denial of service.
The Impact of CVE-2020-10701
The vulnerability allows unauthorized users to disrupt the QEMU guest agent's response mechanism, causing potential denial of service by setting the response timeout to zero.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-10701
Vulnerability Description
A missing authorization flaw in libvirt API allows unprivileged users to adjust the QEMU agent response timeout, potentially causing denial of service.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: libvirt
- Versions Affected: libvirt 6.2.0
Exploitation Mechanism
- Unauthorized users with read-only connections can exploit the flaw to manipulate the response timeout, impacting the QEMU guest agent's functionality.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to libvirt version 6.2.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Restrict network access to the libvirt API to trusted users only.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and apply security patches to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit unauthorized actions.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by libvirt to address the missing authorization flaw and enhance system security.