CVE-2020-26147 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Discover the impact of CVE-2020-26147 on Linux kernel 5.8.9. Learn about the vulnerability allowing packet injection and data exfiltration in Wi-Fi networks. Find mitigation steps here.
An issue was discovered in the Linux kernel 5.8.9 where the WEP, WPA, WPA2, and WPA3 implementations reassemble fragments, potentially leading to packet injection and data exfiltration.
Understanding CVE-2020-26147
This CVE identifies a vulnerability in the Linux kernel version 5.8.9 that affects the handling of fragmented frames in Wi-Fi security protocols.
What is CVE-2020-26147?
The vulnerability allows attackers to inject packets and exfiltrate selected fragments when another device sends fragmented frames using specific data-confidentiality protocols.
The Impact of CVE-2020-26147
The vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized packet injection and data exfiltration in Wi-Fi networks utilizing WEP, CCMP, or GCMP data-confidentiality protocols.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-26147
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The Linux kernel 5.8.9 fails to properly handle reassembling fragments, allowing attackers to exploit this behavior for malicious activities.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Version: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending fragmented frames in plaintext, which are reassembled by the affected Linux kernel, enabling packet injection and data exfiltration.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-26147 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by the Linux kernel maintainers.
- Monitor network traffic for any signs of packet injection or data exfiltration.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement strong encryption protocols to secure Wi-Fi communications.
- Regularly update and patch all software components to address known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security audits to identify and mitigate potential risks in network protocols.
- Educate users on secure Wi-Fi practices to prevent unauthorized access.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches released by the Linux kernel maintainers to mitigate the vulnerability.