CVE-2019-13069 in SilverSHielD
Summary
by MITRE
extenua SilverSHielD 6.x fails to secure its ProgramData folder, leading to a Local Privilege Escalation to SYSTEM. The attacker must replace SilverShield.config.sqlite with a version containing an additional user account, and then use SSH and port forwarding to reach a 127.0.0.1 service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-13069 affects extenua SilverSHielD version 6.x and represents a critical local privilege escalation flaw that can result in SYSTEM-level access on affected systems. This vulnerability stems from inadequate security controls within the ProgramData folder of the SilverSHielD application, creating an exploitable condition where unauthorized users can manipulate configuration files to gain elevated privileges. The flaw specifically targets the application's failure to properly secure its program data storage location, which serves as a critical attack surface for privilege escalation attempts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a multi-stage exploitation process that begins with file system manipulation of the SilverShield.config.sqlite database file. Attackers must first gain access to a low-privileged user account and then replace the legitimate configuration file with a maliciously crafted version containing additional user account entries. This manipulation allows the attacker to establish a backdoor account within the application's authentication system. The exploitation process requires the attacker to leverage SSH connectivity and port forwarding capabilities to access services bound to the loopback interface at 127.0.0.1, which typically provides access to application-specific services that are normally restricted to local system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it enables attackers to achieve complete system compromise through a relatively straightforward attack chain. The attack requires minimal privileges initially but can result in SYSTEM-level access, which provides unrestricted control over the target system. This includes the ability to modify system files, install malicious software, access all user accounts, and potentially establish persistent access mechanisms. The vulnerability's exploitation is particularly concerning because it can be executed by attackers who only need basic user-level access to the system, making it an attractive target for both internal and external threat actors.
The underlying security flaw aligns with CWE-732, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal vulnerabilities. This weakness creates a direct pathway for attackers to manipulate application configuration files that should remain protected from unauthorized modification. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1068, which covers 'Local Privilege Escalation', and T1566, which encompasses 'Phishing' as the initial access vector, though the specific attack requires local system access. The vulnerability also demonstrates characteristics of T1078, 'Valid Accounts', as it leverages legitimate user accounts to establish persistent access through the creation of additional user accounts within the application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-13069 should focus on implementing proper file system permissions and access controls for the ProgramData folder containing SilverSHielD configuration files. System administrators should ensure that only authorized processes and users have write permissions to critical application directories. The recommended approach includes applying the latest security patches from extenua, implementing file integrity monitoring solutions, and conducting regular security audits of application configuration files. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to loopback services, preventing unauthorized access to 127.0.0.1 bound applications. The implementation of principle of least privilege for all application components, combined with regular security assessments of third-party software, will significantly reduce the attack surface and prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.