CVE-2016-8016 in VirusScan Enterprise Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Information exposure in Intel Security VirusScan Enterprise Linux (VSEL) 2.0.3 (and earlier) allows authenticated remote attackers to obtain the existence of unauthorized files on the system via a URL parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8016 represents a critical information exposure flaw within Intel Security VirusScan Enterprise Linux version 2.0.3 and earlier releases. This security weakness enables authenticated remote attackers to gain unauthorized knowledge about the presence of files on the target system through manipulation of URL parameters, potentially compromising system integrity and confidentiality. The vulnerability exists in the web interface component of the security solution, creating an attack vector that bypasses normal access controls and file system protections.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the web-based management interface of VSEL. When attackers submit specially crafted URL parameters to the vulnerable system, the application fails to properly verify user permissions before responding to file existence queries. This improper validation allows the system to disclose information about unauthorized files, including their presence or absence, without requiring appropriate authentication levels. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-200, which addresses information exposure through improper access control, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for data from information repositories, specifically targeting file and directory enumeration.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance data about the target environment. An attacker who has already gained authentication credentials can leverage this flaw to map the file system structure, identify sensitive files, and potentially discover system configurations or application data that could be used in subsequent attacks. This information can significantly aid in planning more sophisticated exploitation attempts, including potential privilege escalation or targeted attacks against specific system components. The vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where VSEL is deployed, as it can expose internal system structures to unauthorized parties.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-8016 should focus on immediate patching of affected systems to the latest available versions of Intel Security VirusScan Enterprise Linux. Organizations must ensure that all instances of the software are updated to versions that contain proper input validation and access control mechanisms. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the web management interface, limiting exposure to trusted networks only. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual URL parameter patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security administrators should also conduct comprehensive audits of file system permissions and access controls to ensure that unauthorized file access cannot occur through alternative vectors. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and access control implementation in web applications, particularly in enterprise security tools where administrative interfaces are exposed to network traffic.