CVE-2019-1060 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists when the Microsoft XML Core Services MSXML parser processes user input, aka 'MS XML Remote Code Execution Vulnerability'.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2020
The CVE-2019-1060 vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft XML Core Services MSXML parser, specifically affecting versions of Windows that include MSXML 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, and 6.0. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of user input during XML parsing operations, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to exploit the vulnerability without authentication, making it a significant concern for enterprise environments where Windows systems are prevalent. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121, which deals with stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 for legitimate program execution and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the MSXML parser encounters specially crafted XML input that triggers memory corruption during parsing operations. Attackers can construct malicious XML documents that, when processed by the vulnerable MSXML components, cause the parser to execute unintended code within the context of the current user. The flaw manifests through improper validation of XML content, particularly when dealing with external entity references and nested elements that exceed buffer boundaries. This allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical function pointers or return addresses, enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-1060 extends beyond individual system compromise to potentially enable broader network infiltration and lateral movement within enterprise environments. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability can allow attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and deploy additional malware payloads. The vulnerability affects multiple Windows versions including Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019, making it particularly concerning for organizations with diverse Windows deployments. Organizations using Microsoft Office applications, web applications that process XML content, or systems that rely on MSXML for data processing are at heightened risk of exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-1060 should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches and updates, particularly the MSXML 6.0 update that addresses the specific memory corruption issue. System administrators should implement network segmentation and firewall rules to limit access to systems that process external XML content, while also monitoring for suspicious XML processing activities. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary XML processing capabilities, implementing application whitelisting policies, and conducting thorough vulnerability assessments of systems that rely on MSXML components. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and highlights the need for organizations to implement comprehensive vulnerability management processes that include regular assessment of third-party components and libraries used in their systems.