CVE-2020-36193
Published: August 25, 2022
Official Description
PEAR Archive_Tar Tar.php allows write operations with directory traversal due to inadequate checking of symbolic links. PEAR stands for PHP Extension and Application Repository and it is an open-source framework and distribution system for reusable PHP components with known usage in third-party products such as Drupal Core and Red Hat Linux.
CISA KEV Advisory
PEAR Archive_Tar Improper Link Resolution Vulnerability
PEAR Archive_Tar Tar.php allows write operations with directory traversal due to inadequate checking of symbolic links. PEAR stands for PHP Extension and Application Repository and it is an open-source framework and distribution system for reusable PHP components with known usage in third-party products such as Drupal Core and Red Hat Linux.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability in PEAR Archive_Tar allows for directory traversal during write operations due to inadequate checking of symbolic links, potentially affecting products like Drupal Core and Red Hat Linux. The high EPSS score of 0.71148 indicates a significant likelihood of exploitation, and its inclusion in the KEV catalog confirms it has been actively exploited.
This vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, as confirmed by its presence in the KEV catalog. Attackers are leveraging this flaw to perform directory traversal attacks.
Ensure that any applications or systems using PEAR Archive_Tar, such as Drupal Core or Red Hat Linux, are updated to versions that patch this vulnerability. Implement strict input validation and sanitize user-supplied data to prevent directory traversal.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2020-36193 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2020-36193 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (2)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2020-36193 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1