Critical Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in ipmitool: Remote Code Execution Risk
Summary
CVE-2020-5208: It's been found that multiple functions in ipmitool before 1.8.19 neglect proper checking of the data received from a remote LAN party, which may lead to buffer overflows and potentially to remote code execution on the i... Affects ipmitool across 2 version ranges.
< 1.8.18-10.1
< e824c23316ae50beb7f7488f2055ac65e8b341f2
Fixed in 1.8.18-10.1. How to fix ↓
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Background
ipmitool is a command-line utility used for managing and configuring devices that support the Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI). It allows users to perform various tasks such as monitoring system health, managing power, and accessing system logs. The tool is widely used in server management, especially in data centers. However, prior to version 1.8.19, ipmitool had a critical vulnerability that could be exploited due to insufficient data validation from remote LAN parties, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2020-5208, arises from multiple functions in ipmitool that fail to properly check the data received from remote sources. This oversight can lead to buffer overflows, which may allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the ipmitool side. The risk is particularly severe if ipmitool is executed with elevated privileges, as this could enable an attacker to gain full control over the affected system. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.8.18-10.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade ipmitoolTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If upgrading is not immediately possible, consider running ipmitool with reduced privileges or limiting its access to trusted networks only. This can help mitigate the risk of exploitation until a proper update can be applied.
Conclusion
The CVE-2020-5208 vulnerability in ipmitool poses a significant risk due to its potential for remote code execution. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to version 1.8.19 or later to mitigate this risk. Additionally, employing workarounds such as limiting privileges can provide temporary relief until an upgrade is feasible.
See every vulnerability recorded for ipmitool →
FAQ
CVE-2020-5208 is a vulnerability in ipmitool that allows for buffer overflow and potential remote code execution due to inadequate data validation.
You can check your version of ipmitool by running 'ipmitool -V' in the command line. If it is below 1.8.19, it is vulnerable.
Failure to address this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, potentially compromising the entire system.
Yes, you can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software using just a manifest file like package-lock.json.
Detailed information about CVE-2020-5208 can be found on various security databases and advisories, including the official CVE database.
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