Description Preview
Overview
This vulnerability (CVE-2020-15024) affects the Password Manager component in Avast Antivirus 20.1.5069.562. The issue stems from improper memory handling after user logout or Lock Vault operations. When a user enters their password and later logs out or locks the vault, the password data continues to be stored in Windows main memory instead of being securely cleared. This represents both an Improper Resource Cleanup (CWE-459) and Improper Removal of Sensitive Information Before Storage or Transfer (CWE-212) vulnerability. An attacker with access to the system's memory could potentially extract these passwords, defeating the security purpose of the logout and lock functionality.
Remediation
Users should update to the latest version of Avast Antivirus that addresses this vulnerability. Until an update is applied, users should consider the following mitigations:
- Restart the computer after using the Password Manager to clear memory
- Avoid using the Password Manager on shared computers or systems
- Consider using an alternative password management solution until the issue is resolved
- Monitor for any Avast security bulletins regarding this vulnerability
- Implement additional system security measures to prevent unauthorized memory access
References
- Third Party Advisory: http://nestedif.com/avast-antivirus-password-manager-vulnerability-improper-session-handling-leading-to-information-disclosure-advisory/
- CWE-212: Improper Removal of Sensitive Information Before Storage or Transfer
- CWE-459: Incomplete Cleanup
Industry ExposureMost to leastThis section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
- Accommodation & Food ServicesAccommodation & Food Services: Low
- Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation ServicesAdministrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
- Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & HuntingAgriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
- Arts, Entertainment & RecreationArts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
- ConstructionConstruction: Low
- Educational ServicesEducational Services: Low
- Finance and InsuranceFinance and Insurance: Low
- Health Care & Social AssistanceHealth Care & Social Assistance: Low
- InformationInformation: Low
- Management of Companies & EnterprisesManagement of Companies & Enterprises: Low
- ManufacturingManufacturing: Low
- MiningMining: Low
- Other Services (except Public Administration)Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
- Professional, Scientific, & Technical ServicesProfessional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
- Public AdministrationPublic Administration: Low
- Real Estate Rental & LeasingReal Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
- Retail TradeRetail Trade: Low
- Transportation & WarehousingTransportation & Warehousing: Low
- UtilitiesUtilities: Low
- Wholesale TradeWholesale Trade: Low
