CVE-2012-1895 in .NET Framework
Summary
by MITRE
The reflection implementation in Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 SP3, 1.1 SP1, 2.0 SP2, 3.5.1, and 4 does not properly enforce object permissions, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) a crafted XAML browser application (aka XBAP) or (2) a crafted .NET Framework application, aka "Reflection Bypass Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2021
The CVE-2012-1895 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in Microsoft .NET Framework versions 1.0 SP3, 1.1 SP1, 2.0 SP2, 3.5.1, and 4 that stems from improper enforcement of object permissions within the reflection implementation. This vulnerability falls under the category of privilege escalation and code execution flaws, specifically manifesting as a bypass of security restrictions that should normally prevent unauthorized code execution. The issue resides in the core reflection mechanisms that allow .NET applications to inspect and manipulate types at runtime, creating an opportunity for attackers to circumvent security boundaries that are fundamental to the framework's security model.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through two primary vectors: crafted XAML browser applications and malicious .NET Framework applications. XAML browser applications represent a specific type of .NET application that runs in web browsers and can leverage the full power of the .NET Framework while maintaining a sandboxed environment. However, the reflection bypass allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within these applications, effectively breaking the security boundaries that normally isolate potentially malicious code from the underlying system. The attack mechanism involves manipulating the reflection APIs to access restricted objects and methods that should be protected by security policies, enabling code execution that violates the intended security model of the .NET Framework.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to perform sophisticated attacks that can compromise entire systems. When exploited through XBAP applications, attackers can leverage the reflection bypass to execute malicious code with the privileges of the user running the application, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects multiple versions of the .NET Framework, creating a widespread attack surface across numerous systems and applications that depend on these frameworks. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script interpreter, as attackers can use the bypass to execute arbitrary commands and scripts within the application environment.
The security implications of CVE-2012-1895 are significant for enterprise environments that rely on .NET Framework applications, particularly those that utilize XAML browser applications or applications that might be vulnerable to crafted malicious input. Organizations running affected versions of the .NET Framework face the risk of unauthorized code execution, data theft, and potential system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper object permission enforcement in security-sensitive frameworks and highlights how flaws in core reflection mechanisms can undermine the entire security architecture. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, execute malicious payloads, and potentially establish persistent access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1895 primarily involve applying Microsoft security updates and patches that address the reflection permission enforcement issues. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected .NET Framework versions to their latest security patches and consider implementing additional security controls such as application whitelisting and network segmentation to limit the impact of potential exploitation. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper security model implementation, as it demonstrates how improper permission enforcement can create exploitable conditions in security-critical frameworks. System administrators should monitor for signs of exploitation attempts and implement comprehensive security monitoring to detect unauthorized code execution attempts that might indicate successful exploitation of this vulnerability.