CVE-2019-19475 in Applications Manager
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in ManageEngine Applications Manager 14 with Build 14360. Integrated PostgreSQL which is built-in in Applications Manager is prone to attack due to lack of file permission security. The malicious users who are in �Authenticated Users� group can exploit privilege escalation and modify PostgreSQL configuration to execute arbitrary command to escalate and gain full system privilege user access and rights over the system.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-19475 affects ManageEngine Applications Manager version 14 with build 14360 and represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the integrated PostgreSQL database component. This issue stems from insufficient file permission controls that allow authenticated users within the system to exploit weaknesses in the database configuration management. The vulnerability exists in the default installation configuration where proper access controls are not enforced for database files and configuration parameters, creating an attack surface that malicious actors can leverage to compromise system integrity.
The technical flaw manifests through improper file permission security mechanisms within the PostgreSQL instance that is embedded within ManageEngine Applications Manager. When users belong to the authenticated users group, they can manipulate PostgreSQL configuration files and settings without proper authorization. This misconfiguration allows attackers to modify database parameters that control system behavior and execute arbitrary commands through the database interface. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of database security and operating system privilege management, where database-level access translates to system-level privileges through command execution capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and encompasses complete system compromise for unauthorized users. Attackers can escalate privileges from standard authenticated user status to full administrative control over the underlying operating system. This privilege escalation enables comprehensive system access including file system manipulation, process management, and network configuration changes. The vulnerability essentially provides a backdoor path for attackers to gain root or administrator level access, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system disruption, or further lateral movement within network environments where the affected system resides.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276 which addresses improper file permissions and CWE-78 which covers OS command injection flaws. The attack pattern follows techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation tactics and techniques, specifically targeting weak file permissions and database configuration weaknesses. Organizations using ManageEngine Applications Manager should implement immediate mitigations including restricting file permissions for PostgreSQL configuration files, disabling unnecessary database access for standard users, and applying the vendor-provided security patches. Network segmentation and monitoring of database access patterns can help detect exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments should verify proper implementation of access controls to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in the system architecture.