CVE-2018-15410 in WebEx Network Recording Player
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in the Cisco Webex Network Recording Player for Microsoft Windows and the Cisco Webex Player for Microsoft Windows could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on an affected system. The vulnerability exist because the affected software improperly validates Advanced Recording Format (ARF) and Webex Recording Format (WRF) files. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a user a malicious ARF or WRF file via a link or an email attachment and persuading the user to open the file by using the affected software. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/22/2023
This vulnerability resides within Cisco Webex Network Recording Player and Cisco Webex Player software for Microsoft Windows systems, representing a critical code execution flaw that could compromise entire endpoints. The issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the affected applications when processing Advanced Recording Format and Webex Recording Format files. According to CWE-20, this vulnerability manifests as improper input validation, specifically failing to properly validate file formats before processing them. The flaw creates a dangerous condition where legitimate user interactions with maliciously crafted media files can trigger unauthorized code execution on targeted systems.
The exploitation vector leverages social engineering tactics where attackers craft malicious ARF or WRF files designed to trigger the vulnerability when opened by unsuspecting users. This approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1204.002 which describes user execution through spearphishing attachments. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where file parsing routines fail to properly sanitize or validate file structures, allowing attackers to inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the affected application. The attack requires user interaction through opening the malicious file, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users frequently open email attachments or click on links.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential full system compromise, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within network environments. When successfully exploited, the attacker gains the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the victim's system, potentially escalating privileges or establishing persistent access. The vulnerability affects Windows operating systems where the Cisco Webex applications are installed, creating a widespread attack surface given the popularity of these collaboration tools in enterprise settings. Organizations relying on these applications for meetings, training, and collaboration face significant risk exposure when systems remain unpatched.
Mitigation strategies must include immediate patch application from Cisco as the primary defense mechanism, alongside network-based controls to block suspicious file transfers and email attachments. Security teams should implement application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of untrusted media files and deploy endpoint protection solutions with behavioral monitoring capabilities. Regular security awareness training for users helps reduce social engineering success rates, while network segmentation can limit the lateral movement potential once initial compromise occurs. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure file format handling practices and proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and other security standards. Organizations should also consider implementing email filtering solutions that can detect and quarantine suspicious attachments before they reach end users, reducing the attack surface for such exploitation methods.