CVE-2019-15284 in WebEx Network Recording Player
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple vulnerabilities in Cisco Webex Network Recording Player for Microsoft Windows and Cisco Webex Player for Microsoft Windows could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on an affected system. The vulnerabilities exist due to insufficient validation of certain elements with a Webex recording stored in either the Advanced Recording Format (ARF) or the Webex Recording Format (WRF). An attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by sending a user a malicious ARF or WRF file through a link or email attachment and persuading the user to open the file with the affected software on the local system. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system with the privileges of the targeted user.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-15284 represents a critical security flaw in Cisco Webex Network Recording Player and Cisco Webex Player software for Microsoft Windows platforms. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the affected applications, specifically when processing multimedia recordings stored in either Advanced Recording Format (ARF) or Webex Recording Format (WRF) file structures. The flaw creates a dangerous attack vector that could be exploited by malicious actors seeking unauthorized system access and execution privileges.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a classic social engineering attack pattern where an attacker crafts malicious ARF or WRF files designed to trigger code execution when opened by the vulnerable software. The insufficient validation of file elements means that when a user opens a specially crafted recording file, the application fails to properly sanitize or verify the contents before processing them. This processing failure creates an execution environment where arbitrary code can be injected and subsequently executed with the privileges of the currently logged-in user, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to enterprise environments where Webex recording software is commonly deployed for collaboration and training purposes. The attack requires minimal technical sophistication from the attacker, relying primarily on user deception through phishing emails or malicious links, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users may not be adequately trained in cybersecurity awareness. The privilege escalation aspect means that even if users operate with standard accounts, successful exploitation could provide attackers with the ability to install malware, access sensitive data, or establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses buffer overflow conditions, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK framework's execution techniques under T1059.001 for command and script interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should consider implementing multiple layers of defense including user education programs, email filtering solutions, and application whitelisting policies to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. Immediate remediation through official Cisco security patches and updates is essential, while network segmentation and monitoring solutions can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of validating third-party media file formats and implementing strict file type controls in enterprise environments to prevent similar issues with other multimedia applications.