CVE-2020-7266 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-7266, a Privilege Escalation vulnerability in McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) for Windows. Understand the impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps.
A Privilege Escalation vulnerability in McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) for Windows prior to 8.8 Patch 14 Hotfix 116778 allows local users to delete files they should not have access to by manipulating symbolic links.
Understanding CVE-2020-7266
This CVE involves a vulnerability in McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) for Windows that enables local users to escalate privileges through symbolic links manipulation.
What is CVE-2020-7266?
This CVE refers to a Privilege Escalation vulnerability in McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) for Windows before version 8.8 Patch 14 Hotfix 116778. It allows local users to delete files they would not typically have access to by redirecting a McAfee delete action through symbolic links.
The Impact of CVE-2020-7266
- CVSS Base Score: 8.8 (High)
- Attack Vector: Local
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- Privileges Required: Low
- Scope: Changed
- User Interaction: None
Technical Details of CVE-2020-7266
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows local users to delete files they would not typically have access to by manipulating symbolic links to redirect McAfee delete actions.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (VSE) for Windows
- Affected Version: 8.8.x (prior to Patch 14 Hotfix 116778)
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation involves running a malicious script or program on the target machine to manipulate symbolic links.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-7266, follow these steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the latest patch or hotfix provided by McAfee.
- Monitor and restrict user permissions to prevent unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update McAfee VirusScan Enterprise to the latest version.
- Educate users on safe computing practices to avoid running malicious scripts.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to mitigate the vulnerability.