CVE-2019-20451 in Prismview System 9
Summary
by MITRE
The HTTP API in Prismview System 9 11.10.17.00 and Prismview Player 11 13.09.1100 allows remote code execution by uploading RebootSystem.lnk and requesting /REBOOTSYSTEM or /RESTARTVNC. (Authentication is required but an XML file containing credentials can be downloaded.)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-20451 affects the Prismview System 9 11.10.17.00 and Prismview Player 11 13.09.1100 software platforms, representing a critical remote code execution flaw within the HTTP API component. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and inadequate access control mechanisms that allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw specifically manifests when certain specially crafted files are uploaded to the system, particularly the RebootSystem.lnk file, which when processed through the HTTP API endpoints triggers unauthorized system operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves a multi-step attack process that begins with the upload of the malicious RebootSystem.lnk file through the HTTP API interface. Once uploaded, the attacker can subsequently make HTTP requests to specific endpoints including /REBOOTSYSTEM or /RESTARTVNC to trigger the execution of the uploaded file. This represents a classic example of a file upload vulnerability combined with insecure direct object reference, where the system fails to properly validate the uploaded content or enforce proper access controls. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and demonstrates a failure in proper security controls that should prevent unauthorized execution of system commands.
While the vulnerability requires authentication, the security model is compromised by the fact that attackers can download an XML file containing valid credentials, effectively bypassing the authentication requirement. This credential exposure creates a particularly dangerous scenario where an attacker who gains access to the XML file can immediately escalate privileges and execute commands without additional authentication challenges. The system's failure to implement proper credential management or secure storage mechanisms for authentication data significantly weakens the overall security posture.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and potentially catastrophic for organizations relying on these systems. Remote code execution capabilities allow attackers to gain complete control over affected systems, enabling them to install malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent backdoors. The ability to reboot systems or restart VNC services provides attackers with additional attack vectors for maintaining access or conducting further reconnaissance. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434 which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities, and represents a direct threat to system availability and integrity.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling unnecessary HTTP API endpoints, implementing proper input validation for file uploads, enforcing strict access controls, and removing or securing the XML credential files that can be downloaded through the system. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file upload activities and unusual API access patterns. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure credential storage practices and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in system architecture. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command and control communications, privilege escalation, and execution through legitimate system processes.