CVE-2016-8031 in Security Anti-Virus
Summary
by MITRE
Software Integrity Attacks vulnerability in Intel Security Anti-Virus Engine (AVE) 5200 through 5800 allows local users to bypass local security protection via a crafted input file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/24/2020
The CVE-2016-8031 vulnerability represents a critical software integrity attack that targets Intel Security Anti-Virus Engine version 5200 through 5800, specifically affecting the AVE component of Intel Security products. This vulnerability operates at the core of endpoint protection mechanisms, where it allows local attackers to circumvent established security controls through carefully crafted input files. The flaw exists within the engine's processing logic for handling various file formats, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute unauthorized operations while bypassing the intended security protections. The vulnerability's classification as a software integrity attack aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms, and demonstrates how security controls can be undermined through manipulation of input validation processes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of input parameters within the AVE engine's file processing pipeline. When the engine encounters a specially crafted input file, it fails to properly validate the file structure or content, allowing malicious elements to be interpreted as legitimate components. This processing failure creates an execution path where the engine's security checks are effectively neutralized, enabling local users to perform actions that should be restricted. The vulnerability exploits weaknesses in the engine's signature validation and file analysis routines, where crafted payloads can manipulate the engine's behavior to bypass detection mechanisms and access controls. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code or escalate privileges within the system's security boundaries, fundamentally undermining the integrity of the protection framework.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-8031 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it represents a fundamental breach in the security architecture of Intel Security products. Local users who exploit this vulnerability can effectively bypass the protection mechanisms designed to prevent unauthorized access to system resources, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's local nature means that attackers must already have access to the target system, but once exploited, they can undermine the very security controls that are meant to protect against external threats. This creates a dangerous scenario where the security infrastructure itself becomes a vector for attack, as the AVE engine's protection mechanisms are subverted to enable malicious activities. The impact is particularly severe in enterprise environments where Intel Security products are deployed as primary endpoint protection solutions, as it allows attackers to bypass multiple layers of security that should prevent unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-8031 require immediate patching of affected Intel Security Anti-Virus Engine versions, with the recommended approach being the deployment of updated software releases that address the input validation flaws. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring of system access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability's impact may not be immediately apparent during normal operation. Security teams must also conduct thorough assessments of their endpoint protection configurations to identify any additional vulnerabilities that may exist within the broader security infrastructure. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1068, which addresses local privilege escalation, and organizations should consider implementing additional controls to prevent unauthorized code execution. Regular security updates and patch management processes become critical in preventing exploitation, as this vulnerability demonstrates how even well-established security products can contain flaws that allow attackers to bypass protection mechanisms. System administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.