CVE-2014-0602 in Security Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the DumpToFile method in the NQMcsVarSet ActiveX control in NetIQ Security Manager through 6.5.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2014-3460.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/10/2019
The CVE-2014-0602 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the NQMcsVarSet ActiveX control component of NetIQ Security Manager version 6.5.4 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the DumpToFile method which is designed to write data to files on the target system. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate file paths and execute arbitrary code through unspecified attack vectors that differ from the related CVE-2014-3460 vulnerability. The vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the ActiveX control's DumpToFile method. When processing user-supplied data, the control fails to properly sanitize or validate file path parameters, allowing attackers to craft malicious input that can traverse directory structures beyond the intended scope. This weakness specifically impacts the NQMcsVarSet ActiveX control which is part of the broader NetIQ Security Manager suite used for network security monitoring and management. The vulnerability enables attackers to write files to arbitrary locations on the target system, potentially leading to privilege escalation and complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0602 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise and persistent access. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious payloads, modify system files, install backdoors, or establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access or local credentials to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where ActiveX controls are often deployed. The attack surface is amplified by the fact that ActiveX controls are frequently enabled in corporate environments, creating multiple potential entry points for exploitation.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers where possible, implementing strict network segmentation, and applying vendor-provided patches or updates. The vulnerability demonstrates the persistent risks associated with ActiveX controls in enterprise security solutions, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1195.001 which covers the use of ActiveX controls for privilege escalation and code execution. Network administrators should also deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file creation patterns and implement application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of untrusted ActiveX components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in component-based security solutions, particularly in legacy systems that continue to support older technologies like ActiveX controls.