CVE-2019-19161 in CyMiInstaller322 ActiveX
Summary
by MITRE
CyMiInstaller322 ActiveX which runs MIPLATFORM downloads files required to run applications. A vulnerability in downloading files by CyMiInstaller322 ActiveX caused by an attacker to download randomly generated DLL files and MIPLATFORM to load those DLLs due to insufficient verification.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/28/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-19161 affects the CyMiInstaller322 ActiveX control used in MIPLATFORM applications, representing a critical security flaw that enables arbitrary code execution through malicious file downloads. This ActiveX component operates by downloading necessary files to support application functionality, creating a potential attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate the download process. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the file download and loading procedures, allowing attackers to inject and execute unauthorized dynamic link library files. The flaw specifically manifests when the system downloads files from remote locations without proper verification of file integrity, source authenticity, or content legitimacy, creating opportunities for attackers to substitute legitimate files with malicious payloads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the ActiveX control's failure to validate downloaded files against expected checksums, digital signatures, or known good file hashes before execution. This insufficient verification process enables attackers to craft malicious DLL files with randomized names that can be seamlessly integrated into the MIPLATFORM execution environment. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, known as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory," and CWE-494, "Download of Code without Integrity Check," both of which describe the insecure handling of file downloads and execution paths. The attack vector typically involves social engineering or exploitation of trusted relationships where users unknowingly trigger the malicious download process, often through compromised websites or malicious email attachments that invoke the vulnerable ActiveX control.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the affected system through the MIPLATFORM infrastructure. Once a malicious DLL is successfully loaded and executed, attackers can establish backdoors, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malware components within the system. The vulnerability's exploitation creates a persistent threat model that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.001, "Supply Chain Compromise," as the attack leverages legitimate software components to deliver malicious payloads. System administrators face significant challenges in detecting these attacks due to the legitimate nature of the ActiveX control and the randomized naming convention used by attackers to evade signature-based detection systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-19161 should prioritize immediate removal or disabling of the vulnerable CyMiInstaller322 ActiveX control from affected systems, particularly in environments where ActiveX controls are still permitted. Organizations must implement strict file download validation processes that include digital signature verification, checksum validation, and source authentication before any downloaded files are executed. The implementation of application whitelisting policies and strict browser security settings can significantly reduce the attack surface by preventing automatic execution of unsigned or untrusted ActiveX components. Additionally, network-based solutions such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor and block suspicious file download patterns originating from the vulnerable ActiveX control. Security teams should also establish comprehensive monitoring protocols to detect anomalous DLL loading activities and implement regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other ActiveX components or legacy software platforms.