CVE-2007-2279 in Veritas Storage Foundation
Summary
by MITRE
The Scheduler Service (VxSchedService.exe) in Symantec Storage Foundation for Windows 5.0 allows remote attackers to bypass authentication and execute arbitrary code via certain requests to the service socket that create (1) PreScript or (2) PostScript registry values under Veritas\VxSvc\CurrentVersion\Schedules specifying future command execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2279 represents a critical authentication bypass flaw within Symantec Storage Foundation for Windows 5.0, specifically affecting the Scheduler Service component known as VxSchedService.exe. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and privilege escalation mechanisms within the service's socket handling functionality. The flaw exists in how the service processes incoming requests through its network interface, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate the system's scheduling mechanism without proper authentication credentials. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially compromising the entire storage infrastructure managed by Symantec Storage Foundation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of registry values within the Windows registry hierarchy under the Veritas\VxSvc\CurrentVersion\Schedules path. Attackers can craft specific network requests that cause the vulnerable service to create PreScript or PostScript registry entries, which are then executed at scheduled intervals. This mechanism leverages the legitimate scheduling functionality of the service while subverting its intended security controls. The registry manipulation creates a persistent backdoor that executes commands in the context of the service account, typically running with high privileges. This approach aligns with CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access controls, and demonstrates how improper privilege management can lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability essentially transforms a legitimate administrative feature into an attack vector through unvalidated input processing.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the storage management infrastructure. Once exploited, the malicious PreScript or PostScript entries can be configured to execute commands that may include installing additional malware, establishing remote access capabilities, or exfiltrating sensitive data from the storage environment. The persistent nature of registry-based execution means that even if the initial attack vector is closed, the malicious commands will continue to execute according to the schedule defined by the attacker. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of the storage foundation, potentially leading to data loss, unauthorized access, or complete system compromise. The attack surface is particularly wide given that the Scheduler Service is typically exposed to network traffic for legitimate administrative purposes, making it an attractive target for remote exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2279 should focus on both immediate patching and network-level protections. Organizations must apply the vendor-supplied security patches that address the input validation flaws in the Scheduler Service. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the service ports, limiting exposure to trusted administrative networks only. The registry manipulation aspect of this vulnerability suggests that monitoring and alerting should be implemented for unauthorized changes to the Veritas\VxSvc\CurrentVersion\Schedules registry path. Security controls should include regular registry integrity checks and anomaly detection for scheduled task modifications. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for execution through scheduled tasks and T1068 for privilege escalation through service manipulation, making it a critical target for defensive measures. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for service accounts and conducting regular security assessments of storage management components will help reduce the overall risk exposure.