CVE-2019-4292 in Security Guardium
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Security Guardium 10.5 could allow a remote attacker to upload arbitrary files, which could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the vulnerable web server. IBM X-Force ID: 160698.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/15/2023
IBM Security Guardium version 10.5 contains a critical file upload vulnerability that enables remote code execution through unauthorized file manipulation. This vulnerability resides in the web server component of the security solution and represents a severe compromise of the system's integrity. The flaw allows an unauthenticated attacker to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and upload malicious files to the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate file type restrictions within the web application's upload functionality. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious payloads that are accepted by the server despite violating expected file formats and content restrictions. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the web server's file handling capabilities to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. This represents a classic path to remote code execution through insecure file upload mechanisms that aligns with common attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of "T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and "T1566.001 - Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment."
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks against other network resources. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the Guardium security solution, potentially exposing sensitive data and undermining the security posture of organizations relying on this protection. Organizations using IBM Security Guardium 10.5 face significant risk of unauthorized access to their database security monitoring capabilities and associated data.
IBM has addressed this vulnerability through security updates and patches that implement proper file validation mechanisms and restrict upload capabilities to authorized users only. Organizations should immediately apply the relevant security fixes provided by IBM and implement additional mitigations including network segmentation, web application firewalls, and enhanced monitoring of file upload activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of implementing secure coding practices and proper input validation as outlined in CWE-434, which specifically addresses insecure file upload vulnerabilities. Security teams should also consider implementing additional controls such as mandatory file type checking, size limitations, and content analysis to prevent similar issues in other applications. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in the broader application ecosystem.