CVE-2019-4034 in Content Navigator
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Content Navigator 3.0CD is could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a user's workstation. When editing an executable file in ICN with Edit service, it will be executed on the user's workstation. IBM X-Force ID: 156000.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2023
IBM Content Navigator version 3.0CD contains a critical vulnerability that enables remote code execution through improper handling of executable files during editing operations. This flaw exists within the Edit service component which processes files submitted for editing, creating a dangerous attack vector where malicious actors can craft specially formatted executable files that will automatically execute on target workstations when opened through the content navigator interface. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and unsafe file handling practices that fail to properly sanitize or verify the nature of files being processed. When a user attempts to edit an executable file through the ICN interface, the system does not adequately distinguish between legitimate documents and malicious executables, leading to automatic execution of the file on the user's workstation. This represents a classic sandbox escape vulnerability where the application's editing service operates with elevated privileges and executes arbitrary code without proper security boundaries. The flaw aligns with CWE-74 and CWE-78 categories, specifically addressing issues related to code injection and improper neutralization of special elements used in command construction. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability provides attackers with a direct path to compromise user workstations without requiring additional exploitation steps, as the execution occurs automatically during normal editing operations. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that IBM Content Navigator is widely deployed in enterprise environments where users frequently interact with various document types. The vulnerability can be exploited through social engineering tactics where attackers craft malicious executable files that appear legitimate to users, or through direct compromise of content repositories where such files might be uploaded. This weakness enables adversaries to establish persistent footholds on workstations, escalate privileges, and potentially move laterally within networks. The execution occurs in the context of the user's session with full system privileges, making it a severe threat to enterprise security. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including restricting file type editing capabilities, deploying application control solutions, and ensuring that users cannot execute files directly from content navigator interfaces. Network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in enterprise content management systems. This flaw demonstrates how seemingly routine functionality can become a critical security risk when proper security boundaries are not maintained during file processing operations. The IBM X-Force ID 156000 classification further emphasizes the severity of this vulnerability, indicating that it represents a significant threat to enterprise security infrastructure. Organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability and implementing additional controls to prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious files within content management systems. The attack pattern aligns with techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under execution and privilege escalation domains, where adversaries leverage legitimate system tools and processes to execute malicious code. Proper security awareness training for users regarding file handling practices and content management system usage is essential to reduce the risk of successful exploitation. This vulnerability underscores the critical need for comprehensive security testing of enterprise content management platforms and the importance of maintaining strict file validation processes in all application components that handle user-submitted content.