CVE-2020-7296:Privilege Escalation in McAfee Web Gateway (MWG) allows authenticated users to access protected configuration files.

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A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in McAfee Web Gateway (MWG) versions prior to 9.2.1. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2020-7296, allows authenticated user interface users to access protected configuration files due to improper access control mechanisms in the user interface. By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers could potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive configuration data, which could lead to further system compromise or information disclosure.

Overview

This vulnerability (CVE-2020-7296) is categorized as CWE-287 (Improper Authentication). The issue affects McAfee Web Gateway (MWG) deployments prior to version 9.2.1. The vulnerability stems from improper access control in the user interface that fails to properly restrict authenticated users from accessing protected configuration files. This could allow users with limited privileges to access sensitive configuration data they should not have permission to view or modify. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, potential system reconfiguration, or serve as a stepping stone for further attacks.

Remediation

To address this vulnerability, organizations should:

  1. Update McAfee Web Gateway to version 9.2.1 or later as soon as possible.
  2. If immediate patching is not possible, implement the following temporary mitigations:
    • Limit user interface access to only necessary and trusted personnel
    • Monitor user activities on the McAfee Web Gateway administration interface
    • Regularly audit configuration changes
  3. After patching, verify that access controls are properly enforced by testing user permissions.
  4. Review system logs for any signs of unauthorized access to configuration files that may indicate previous exploitation.

References

  1. McAfee Security Bulletin SB10323: https://kc.mcafee.com/corporate/index?page=content&id=SB10323
  2. MITRE CWE-287 (Improper Authentication): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/287.html
  3. McAfee Web Gateway Documentation: https://docs.mcafee.com/bundle/web-gateway-9.2.x-product-guide/page/GUID-946C7FE6-C527-4D92-9B1C-FD11F7FD31D3.html

Industry ExposureMost to least
This 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.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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