CVE-2020-9451 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Acronis True Image 2020 24.5.22510 is affected by a vulnerability that allows unprivileged users to crash the anti-ransomware service by manipulating log files.

Understanding CVE-2020-9451

An issue in Acronis True Image 2020 24.5.22510 allows unprivileged users to crash the anti-ransomware service by exploiting log file permissions.

What is CVE-2020-9451?

The vulnerability in Acronis True Image 2020 24.5.22510 enables unprivileged users to create a hardlink from a log file to the anti_ransomware_service.exe, causing a crash on reboot due to a SHARING VIOLATION.

The Impact of CVE-2020-9451

The vulnerability allows unprivileged users to disrupt the anti-ransomware service, potentially affecting the system's security and stability.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-9451

The technical aspects of the vulnerability in Acronis True Image 2020 24.5.22510.

Vulnerability Description

The anti_ransomware_service.exe logs in a folder with write permissions for unprivileged users.
Logs are generated predictably, enabling users to create a hardlink to crash the service on reboot.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Acronis True Image 2020 24.5.22510
Vendor: Acronis
Version: 24.5.22510

Exploitation Mechanism

Unprivileged users can create a hardlink from a log file to anti_ransomware_service.exe.
This action causes the service to crash on reboot due to a SHARING VIOLATION.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2020-9451 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Restrict write permissions on the log folder to prevent unauthorized access.
Monitor log file changes for unexpected hardlinks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Acronis True Image to the latest version.
Implement least privilege access to limit user capabilities.

Patching and Updates

Acronis may release patches or updates to address the vulnerability.