CVE-2019-3980 in Dameware Mini Remote Client Agent
Summary
by MITRE
The Solarwinds Dameware Mini Remote Client agent v12.1.0.89 supports smart card authentication which can allow a user to upload an executable to be executed on the DWRCS.exe host. An unauthenticated, remote attacker can request smart card login and upload and execute an arbitrary executable run under the Local System account.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2024
The Solarwinds Dameware Mini Remote Client agent version 12.1.0.89 contains a critical remote code execution vulnerability that stems from its implementation of smart card authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability allows unauthenticated remote attackers to exploit the system by requesting smart card login and subsequently uploading and executing arbitrary executables on the target host running the DWRCS.exe service. The flaw exists within the authentication flow where the system fails to properly validate or restrict access during the smart card login process, creating an attack vector that bypasses normal authentication requirements.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of a weak access control mechanism within the Dameware Mini Remote Client agent. When an attacker initiates a smart card login request, the system does not adequately verify the legitimacy of the authentication attempt or enforce proper access restrictions. This creates a condition where the attacker can leverage the smart card authentication framework to upload malicious payloads that execute with elevated privileges under the Local System account context. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insufficient input validation and access control enforcement, which falls under the CWE-284 access control weakness category.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables remote code execution with system-level privileges without requiring any authentication credentials. Attackers can remotely upload and execute arbitrary code on compromised systems, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within network environments. The Local System account provides extensive privileges including access to system files, registry modifications, and the ability to install additional malware or backdoors. This vulnerability essentially provides an attacker with a persistent foothold that can be used for extended compromise operations.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability. Immediate remediation involves applying the vendor-provided security patches or updates that address the smart card authentication flaw. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to Dameware Mini Remote Client services to only trusted networks and IP addresses. Monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual smart card authentication requests and file upload activities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1059 for command and script interpreter, making it a significant threat vector for adversary operations. Organizations should also conduct thorough network audits to identify all instances of Dameware Mini Remote Client and ensure proper patch management protocols are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.