CVE-2014-6119 in Security AppScan Enterprise
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Security AppScan Enterprise 8.5 before 8.5 IFix 002, 8.6 before 8.6 IFix 004, 8.7 before 8.7 IFix 004, 8.8 before 8.8 iFix 003, 9.0 before 9.0.0.1 iFix 003, and 9.0.1 before 9.0.1 iFix 001 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted executable file in an archive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-6119 affects IBM Security AppScan Enterprise versions prior to specific iFix releases, creating a critical remote code execution risk through archive file manipulation. This vulnerability resides in the application's handling of executable files contained within archive formats, representing a significant security flaw that could be exploited by remote attackers without authentication. The flaw specifically impacts versions 8.5 through 9.0.1, with each major release requiring specific iFix patches to remediate the issue. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434, which deals with Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, indicating that the application fails to properly validate file types during archive extraction processes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the insecure processing of archive files containing executable components. When users upload or process archives through the AppScan Enterprise interface, the application does not adequately verify the nature of files contained within these archives before execution or deployment. This allows attackers to craft malicious archive files that contain specially designed executable components. The flaw essentially permits arbitrary code execution when the application extracts and processes these malicious files, bypassing normal security controls that would typically prevent such operations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by uploading a specially crafted archive file that contains a malicious executable, which then gets executed within the context of the AppScan Enterprise application's privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with full control over the affected systems. Successful exploitation allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or further network infiltration. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where AppScan Enterprise is used for security testing, as it could enable attackers to gain access to sensitive testing environments and potentially compromise the integrity of security assessments. Organizations relying on these security tools for vulnerability scanning and penetration testing face severe risks, as the exploitation could undermine the very security measures designed to protect their networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-6119 require immediate implementation of the vendor-provided iFix patches for each affected version. Organizations should prioritize updating their AppScan Enterprise installations to versions 8.5 IFix 002, 8.6 IFix 004, 8.7 IFix 004, 8.8 iFix 003, 9.0.0.1 iFix 003, and 9.0.1 iFix 001 or later. Additionally, network-level controls should be implemented to restrict access to AppScan Enterprise systems and monitor for suspicious file upload activities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1078.004 for Valid Accounts, as exploitation typically involves executing commands through legitimate application interfaces. Administrators should also implement strict file type validation and content scanning mechanisms, ensuring that only verified, safe archive files are processed within the security testing environment. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining exposure risks in the updated systems.