CVE-2020-7014 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Elasticsearch versions 6.7.0 to 6.8.7 and 7.0.0 to 7.6.1 are affected by a privilege escalation vulnerability allowing attackers to gain elevated privileges.

Understanding CVE-2020-7014

This CVE involves a flaw in Elasticsearch versions that could be exploited for privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2020-7014?

The vulnerability in Elasticsearch versions 6.7.0 to 6.8.7 and 7.0.0 to 7.6.1 allows attackers to create API keys and authentication tokens to escalate privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2020-7014

Attackers with the ability to generate API keys and authentication tokens can manipulate the system to obtain elevated privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-7014

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The incomplete fix for CVE-2020-7009 in Elasticsearch versions 6.7.0 to 6.8.7 and 7.0.0 to 7.6.1 enables privilege escalation through API keys and authentication tokens.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Elasticsearch
Vendor: Elastic
Versions: 6.7.0 to 6.8.7 and 7.0.0 to 7.6.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers create API keys and authentication tokens
Perform specific steps to generate an authentication token with elevated privileges

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-7014 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade affected Elasticsearch versions to patched releases
Monitor and restrict API key and authentication token creation
Implement least privilege access controls

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Elasticsearch installations
Conduct security audits and vulnerability assessments
Educate users on secure API key and token management

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Elastic promptly
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Elastic