CVE-2019-0604 in SharePoint Server
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft SharePoint when the software fails to check the source markup of an application package, aka 'Microsoft SharePoint Remote Code Execution Vulnerability'. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2019-0594.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-0604 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft SharePoint software that stems from inadequate validation of application package source markup. This vulnerability specifically affects Microsoft SharePoint Server 2016 and SharePoint Server 2019, creating a significant security risk for organizations that rely on these platforms for document management and collaboration services. The flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where SharePoint serves as a central hub for business operations and sensitive data storage.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the insufficient input validation mechanisms within SharePoint's application package handling process. When SharePoint processes application packages, it fails to properly validate the source markup of these packages, allowing malicious actors to craft specially crafted packages that contain malicious code or scripts. This validation failure creates an attack surface where an unauthenticated remote attacker can upload and execute arbitrary code on the target server, effectively bypassing normal security controls and access restrictions. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-20 as "Improper Input Validation" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" which describes methods used to exploit vulnerabilities in externally accessible applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-0604 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to establish persistent access to affected systems and potentially escalate privileges within the network. Once successfully exploited, attackers can deploy additional malware, establish backdoors, or use the compromised SharePoint server as a launchpad for further attacks against internal network resources. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of SharePoint's application package management system, potentially allowing attackers to install malicious web parts, modify existing applications, or even gain full administrative control over the SharePoint farm. Organizations may experience data breaches, service disruptions, and compliance violations when this vulnerability is exploited in the wild, particularly in environments where SharePoint hosts sensitive corporate information or regulatory data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-0604 should include immediate deployment of Microsoft's security patches and updates, which address the underlying validation flaw in SharePoint's application package handling. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to SharePoint servers, restrict outbound connections from SharePoint environments, and monitor for suspicious package uploads or unusual application behavior. Additional defensive measures include disabling unnecessary SharePoint features, implementing strict access controls for application package deployment, and conducting regular security assessments of SharePoint configurations. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized code and establish robust monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and following Microsoft's security recommendations for protecting SharePoint environments against similar threats.