CVE-2015-0691 in Secure Desktop
Summary
by MITRE
A certain Cisco JAR file, as distributed in Cache Cleaner in Cisco Secure Desktop (CSD), allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a crafted web site, aka Bug ID CSCup83001.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0691 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Cisco Secure Desktop's Cache Cleaner component. This vulnerability specifically affects the handling of Java Archive files that are distributed as part of the Cisco Secure Desktop suite, creating a dangerous attack vector that enables remote threat actors to gain unauthorized system access. The flaw exists in how the system processes and validates JAR files, allowing maliciously crafted web content to trigger arbitrary command execution on affected systems.
This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the Cache Cleaner functionality of Cisco Secure Desktop. When a user visits a malicious website that delivers a specially crafted JAR file, the system fails to properly verify the file's integrity and origin before executing its contents. The vulnerability exploits the trust model inherent in Java applet execution environments, where legitimate applications are granted elevated privileges that can be abused by attackers. The flaw operates at the application layer and can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring any user interaction beyond visiting the malicious site.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Remote code execution allows threat actors to install malware, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, and establish persistent backdoors within affected networks. Organizations using Cisco Secure Desktop are particularly at risk since the vulnerability affects a core security component designed to protect against threats. The attack surface is broad as any user who accesses the internet and interacts with web content could potentially be compromised, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multiple users access the same systems.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-749, which addresses "Exposed Dangerous Method or Function" and represents a classic example of insecure deserialization combined with improper privilege management. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation. The attack chain typically involves initial access through a malicious website, followed by exploitation of the JAR file handling mechanism to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the affected application. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit exposure, deploy web application firewalls to filter malicious content, and ensure immediate patching of affected systems. Additionally, user education regarding dangerous web content and regular security audits of deployed Cisco Secure Desktop configurations are essential mitigation strategies to reduce the risk of exploitation.