CVE-2020-0796 Scanner

Microsoft Windows SMBv3 is a protocol utilized by Windows operating systems for file sharing, offering capabilities like network file access, printing services, and communication across machines in a Windows network environment. It is predominantly used in corporate networks to facilitate server communications and streamline data handling between nodes. System administrators and IT personnel employ this software to manage and maintain seamless interoperability between networked machines while ensuring data consistency and availability. The protocol plays a critical role in enhancing network performance by allowing efficient, transparent file transfers and resource management. Consequently, any vulnerability within this protocol can have far-reaching implications, affecting day-to-day operations across various industries. The protocol's integration into both client and server systems makes it a cornerstone of networked Windows environments, underscoring the importance of maintaining its security integrity.

Remote Code Execution (RCE) is a severe vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on a targeted system. This type of vulnerability often occurs due to inadequate validation of user inputs or improper handling of protocol requests, leading to exploitation risks from remote malicious entities. The flaw in Microsoft Windows SMBv3 can be exploited to gain unauthorized control over affected systems, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate files, install programs, and create new user accounts with full user rights. RCE vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous as they provide adversaries with significant foothold and leverage within a compromised environment, making remediation and protection measures critical. Organizations with susceptible systems face operational risks, data breaches, and unauthorized actions that can disrupt their networks and compromise sensitive information.

The vulnerability in Microsoft Windows SMBv3 arises from improper handling of certain network requests that can lead to unintended code execution. In particular, malformed packets sent to the server could trick the SMB protocol into executing malicious payloads embedded by an attacker. The vulnerable endpoints primarily include systems running affected versions of the SMB protocol, where specific parameters in packet management are not securely validated. This flaw can be leveraged in both default and customized network configurations where SMBv3 is enabled. The technical details indicate that crafting special packets that exploit the mishandling in the SMB process allows an exploitation path for executing arbitrary codes. As a result, attackers can bypass standard security checks, gaining privileged access to systems.

When exploited, the remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft Windows SMBv3 can have dire consequences for organizations. Not only could attackers take full control of compromised systems, but they would also be able to conduct unauthorized operations such as data deletion, exfiltration, and introduction of malware into network environments. Business operations can suffer interruptions, and threat actors may leverage the compromised systems to perpetrate further attacks, such as lateral movement within the network. The attack vector could extend beyond the initially affected systems, potentially compromising entire network infrastructures and critical data repositories. Hence, it is vital to address such vulnerabilities proactively to avert catastrophic data breaches and operational disruptions.

REFERENCES

• https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2020-0796
• https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-US/security-guidance/advisory/CVE-2020-0796
• https://github.com/tdevworks/CVE-2020-0796-SMBGhost-Exploit-Demo
• http://packetstormsecurity.com/files/156731/CoronaBlue-SMBGhost-Microsoft-Windows-10-SMB-3.1.1-Proof-Of-Concept.html
• http://packetstormsecurity.com/files/156980/Microsoft-Windows-10-SMB-3.1.1-Local-Privilege-Escalation.html