CVE-2017-14079 in Mobile Security
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file uploads in Trend Micro Mobile Security (Enterprise) versions before 9.7 Patch 3 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14079 represents a critical security flaw in Trend Micro Mobile Security Enterprise versions prior to 9.7 Patch 3, where unrestricted file upload functionality creates a pathway for remote code execution. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the mobile security platform's file handling processes, allowing malicious actors to upload potentially harmful files without proper authorization. The flaw exists at the application level where user-supplied content is accepted and processed without adequate sanitization or validation checks that would normally prevent execution of malicious code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly validate file types and content during upload operations, combined with inadequate access controls that permit arbitrary file placement within the system's file structure. Attackers can exploit this by uploading malicious files such as executable binaries, scripts, or web shells that can then be executed within the context of the vulnerable system. The vulnerability falls under CWE-434 which specifically addresses Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, a well-documented weakness that has been frequently exploited in enterprise security platforms. This weakness enables attackers to bypass traditional security controls and gain persistent access to the affected systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14079 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and potentially compromise entire mobile device management infrastructures. Organizations using vulnerable versions of Trend Micro Mobile Security face significant risks including data breaches, unauthorized access to mobile devices, and potential lateral movement within corporate networks. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access to devices or network credentials to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where mobile security solutions are critical for protecting sensitive corporate data.
From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059 which addresses Command and Scripting Interpreter. The attack chain typically begins with reconnaissance of vulnerable installations followed by exploitation of the unrestricted upload functionality, leading to initial access and subsequent privilege escalation. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the 9.7 Patch 3 update, implementing strict file type validation, and deploying network monitoring solutions to detect suspicious upload activities. Additional defensive measures such as network segmentation, mandatory access controls, and regular security assessments can help reduce the attack surface and prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other components of the mobile security infrastructure.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the importance of secure coding practices and regular security updates in enterprise security solutions. Organizations must maintain rigorous patch management processes and conduct thorough security assessments of all security tools to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities. The incident underscores the critical need for input validation and access control mechanisms in security applications, as these tools are often targeted by attackers seeking to compromise the very systems designed to protect against threats. This vulnerability serves as a reminder that even security tools themselves can contain exploitable flaws that require continuous monitoring and remediation to maintain effective defense against evolving cyber threats.