CVE-2020-7325 in MVision Endpoint
Summary
by MITRE
Privilege Escalation vulnerability in McAfee MVISION Endpoint prior to 20.9 Update allows local users to access files which the user otherwise would not have access to via manipulating symbolic links to redirect McAfee file operations to an unintended file.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2020
The CVE-2020-7325 vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within McAfee MVISION Endpoint software versions prior to the 20.9 update. This vulnerability specifically targets the file access control mechanisms implemented by the endpoint protection solution, creating a pathway for local attackers to bypass intended security restrictions. The flaw stems from improper handling of symbolic links during file operations, allowing malicious users to manipulate the system's file resolution process. The vulnerability operates at the kernel or system level where file access decisions are made, enabling attackers to redirect legitimate file operations to arbitrary locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-59 category, which specifically addresses issues related to improper handling of symbolic links or hard links in file operations. The attack vector leverages the principle of least privilege by exploiting a design flaw that permits unauthorized file access through manipulation of file system references.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of symbolic link structures within the McAfee MVISION Endpoint environment. When the endpoint protection software processes file operations, it fails to properly validate or sanitize symbolic link references, allowing attackers to create malicious link structures that redirect file access to protected or sensitive files. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the context of local user privileges, meaning that an attacker with basic system access can exploit this flaw to gain elevated access to files that should be restricted. The flaw typically manifests when the software attempts to access files through symbolic links without proper validation of the target file path, creating a race condition or path traversal scenario. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers 'Local Privilege Escalation' through the exploitation of system-level flaws and improper access controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-7325 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with the capability to read sensitive data, modify protected files, or potentially execute arbitrary code within the system context. Organizations running affected versions of McAfee MVISION Endpoint face significant risk of data breaches, as the vulnerability can be exploited to access system configuration files, user credentials, or other sensitive information stored in protected directories. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multiple users may have local access to systems. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the endpoint protection system itself, as attackers can manipulate the very software designed to protect the system. This creates a scenario where the security controls become compromised, potentially allowing attackers to bypass other security measures such as antivirus detection or firewall rules. The exploitability of this vulnerability is further enhanced by the fact that it does not require network access or specialized tools beyond basic local system manipulation capabilities.
Organizations should immediately implement the McAfee 20.9 update to address this vulnerability, as it contains the necessary patches to prevent symbolic link manipulation during file operations. System administrators should also conduct thorough security audits to identify any potential exploitation attempts that may have occurred prior to the patch deployment. Additional mitigations include implementing strict file system access controls, monitoring symbolic link creation activities, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of endpoint protection software. The remediation process should include verification that no unauthorized symbolic links exist in critical system directories and that proper file permissions are enforced. Security teams should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous file access patterns or suspicious symbolic link operations. This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security software and demonstrates the potential risks associated with insufficient input validation in system-level operations. Organizations should also review their incident response procedures to ensure readiness for potential exploitation of similar privilege escalation vulnerabilities in their security infrastructure.