CVE-2006-1649 in NOD32
Summary
by MITRE
The "restore to" selection in the "quarantine a file" capability of ESET NOD32 before 2.51.26 allows a restore to any directory that permits read access by the invoking user, which allows local users to create new files despite write-access directory permissions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-1649 represents a significant privilege escalation issue within ESET NOD32 antivirus software versions prior to 2.51.26. This flaw exists within the quarantine file handling mechanism, specifically in how the software manages the "restore to" functionality when users attempt to recover files from quarantine. The core technical issue stems from inadequate path validation and access control checks during the file restoration process, allowing local attackers to bypass normal directory permission restrictions.
The vulnerability operates by exploiting the lack of proper input sanitization in the quarantine restore feature. When a user selects to restore a quarantined file, the system should validate that the destination directory allows write access to the executing user. However, ESET NOD32 failed to implement proper access control checks, enabling attackers to specify arbitrary directory paths that may have read-only permissions but still allow file creation through other means. This represents a classic case of insufficient authorization checks that violates fundamental security principles.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability allows local users to circumvent normal file system permissions, potentially enabling them to create malicious files in directories where they would normally only have read access. Attackers could leverage this to place backdoor executables or other malicious payloads in system directories, effectively escalating their privileges within the local environment. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only local user access, making it accessible to any user with login credentials to the affected system.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper file permissions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with privilege escalation attacks documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under techniques such as privilege escalation through file system permissions. The flaw essentially allows attackers to perform file system operations that should be restricted based on directory permissions, creating a persistent threat vector that could be exploited for further compromise.
The recommended mitigation involves updating to ESET NOD32 version 2.51.26 or later, which includes proper path validation and access control checks. Additionally, system administrators should implement principle of least privilege, ensuring that users have minimal necessary permissions and that sensitive directories are properly secured. Network segmentation and monitoring for unauthorized file creation activities can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation of this vulnerability.