CVE-2015-6306 in AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client 4.1(8) on OS X and Linux does not verify pathnames before installation actions, which allows local users to obtain root privileges via a crafted installation file, aka Bug ID CSCuv11947.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6306 affects Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client version 4.1(8) on both macOS and Linux operating systems. This security flaw represents a critical path traversal issue that stems from inadequate validation of installation file paths during the client installation process. The vulnerability specifically targets the client-side installation mechanism where the software fails to properly sanitize or verify the absolute or relative paths specified in installation files, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by local attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the installation routine of the AnyConnect client, where the software accepts installation parameters without sufficient validation of the file paths being processed. When a malicious user crafts a specially designed installation file containing malicious path specifications, the client's installation process blindly follows these paths without proper verification. This lack of input sanitization creates a privilege escalation vector that allows local users to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially obtaining root access on the affected system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-78 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in OS Command, as it combines path manipulation with command execution capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it transforms a local user account into a root-level privileged entity without requiring any additional authentication or exploitation steps beyond crafting a malicious installation file. Attackers can leverage this to escalate privileges and gain complete control over the affected system, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system compromise, or use as a foothold for further attacks within a network. The vulnerability affects organizations that deploy Cisco AnyConnect clients on macOS and Linux systems, particularly those in environments where local user access cannot be strictly controlled or where users might have the ability to execute installation packages.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-6306 should include immediate deployment of Cisco's official security patches and updates to the AnyConnect client software. Organizations must also implement strict access controls and privilege management policies to limit local user capabilities, particularly around installation and execution of software packages. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be employed to detect anomalous installation activities or privilege escalation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 Privilege Escalation through local exploitation, and organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege alongside regular security audits of installed software components to prevent exploitation. Additionally, system hardening measures including disabling unnecessary installation capabilities and implementing file integrity monitoring can provide defense-in-depth against similar path traversal vulnerabilities.