CVE-2016-8020 in VirusScan Enterprise Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Improper control of generation of code vulnerability in Intel Security VirusScan Enterprise Linux (VSEL) 2.0.3 (and earlier) allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via a crafted HTTP request parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8020 represents a critical improper control of generation of code flaw within Intel Security VirusScan Enterprise Linux version 2.0.3 and earlier releases. This weakness specifically manifests in the web-based management interface of the security solution, creating a pathway for remote authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the HTTP request processing components of the VSEL platform, allowing malicious actors to inject and subsequently execute malicious code through carefully crafted HTTP parameters.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes improper control of generation of code, a category that encompasses weaknesses where software fails to properly validate or sanitize inputs that are used to generate executable code. The flaw operates at the application layer where user-supplied HTTP parameters are processed without adequate security controls, creating an environment where attacker-controlled data can be interpreted as executable instructions. This particular implementation vulnerability affects the web management console of VSEL, which typically operates on standard HTTP ports and accepts various parameter types including those related to configuration management, reporting, and system administration functions.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-8020 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to gain full system control of affected VSEL instances. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability enables remote code execution with the privileges of the web application process, potentially allowing attackers to install backdoors, modify security policies, or exfiltrate sensitive data from the enterprise network. The authenticated nature of the attack requires that an attacker first obtain valid credentials, but this access vector remains particularly dangerous as it targets security infrastructure rather than end-user systems. Organizations relying on VSEL for endpoint protection face significant risk, as compromising the management console effectively removes the security controls that protect the network from other threats.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-8020 should prioritize immediate patching of affected VSEL installations to version 2.0.4 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization controls. Network segmentation should be implemented to isolate the VSEL management interface from general network access, while strict access controls should be enforced through multi-factor authentication and role-based permissions. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript', as the exploitation likely involves JavaScript code execution within the web interface. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls to monitor and filter HTTP requests, while conducting regular security assessments to identify similar input validation weaknesses in other enterprise security solutions. Continuous monitoring of network traffic for anomalous HTTP request patterns and implementing principle of least privilege for administrative accounts further reduces the attack surface and potential impact of this vulnerability.