CVE-2020-11446 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

ESET Antivirus and Antispyware Module versions 1553 through 1560 allow a user with limited access rights to create hard links in ESET directories, enabling privilege escalation.

Understanding CVE-2020-11446

ESET Antivirus and Antispyware Module versions 1553 through 1560 have a vulnerability that can be exploited for privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2020-11446?

The vulnerability in ESET Antivirus and Antispyware Module versions 1553 through 1560 allows a user with restricted access to create hard links in specific directories, leading to unauthorized write access and potential privilege escalation.

The Impact of CVE-2020-11446

Exploiting this vulnerability can result in a user gaining elevated privileges, potentially compromising the security and integrity of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-11446

ESET Antivirus and Antispyware Module versions 1553 through 1560 are affected by a privilege escalation vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw enables a user with limited access rights to create hard links in ESET directories, allowing them to write to files that are typically not writable by the user, thereby escalating their privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: ESET Antivirus and Antispyware Module
Versions: 1553 through 1560

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a user with restricted access rights to create hard links in ESET directories, manipulating the product to write through these links into files that would normally be inaccessible.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2020-11446.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update ESET Antivirus and Antispyware Module to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities related to unauthorized file writes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access rights.
Regularly review and update security configurations to mitigate similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by ESET to fix the privilege escalation vulnerability in versions 1553 through 1560 of the Antivirus and Antispyware Module.