CVE-2019-6196 in Installation Package
Summary
by MITRE
A symbolic link vulnerability in some Lenovo installation packages, prior to version 1.2.9.3, could allow privileged file operations during file extraction and installation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-6196 represents a critical symbolic link attack vector present in Lenovo installation packages released prior to version 1.2.9.3. This weakness stems from improper handling of symbolic links during the installation process, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate file operations and potentially escalate privileges. The flaw specifically affects the extraction and installation phases of Lenovo software packages where symbolic link resolution occurs without adequate validation mechanisms.
This vulnerability operates under the broader category of path traversal and privilege escalation attacks, with direct implications for the principle of least privilege and secure file handling practices. The technical implementation flaw occurs when the installation package fails to properly validate or resolve symbolic links before executing file operations, allowing attackers to create malicious symbolic links that point to sensitive system locations. During the extraction process, these symbolic links can be exploited to redirect file contents to arbitrary locations, potentially overwriting critical system files or creating backdoor access points. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-384 which addresses the improper handling of symbolic links in software installations and reflects patterns commonly seen in the ATT&CK framework under T1059.001 for execution through command-line interfaces and T1068 for privilege escalation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file manipulation, as it creates potential pathways for persistent access and system compromise. Attackers could leverage this weakness to install malicious software, modify system binaries, or establish footholds within target environments. The privilege escalation aspect means that even users with limited permissions could potentially gain administrative access to systems through this attack vector. Organizations running vulnerable Lenovo installation packages face significant risk of supply chain compromise, as the vulnerability exists in the installation process itself rather than in the installed software. The attack surface includes any system where Lenovo software packages are installed, particularly affecting enterprise environments where standardized deployment processes may be in place.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-6196 focus primarily on immediate software updates to version 1.2.9.3 or later, which contain proper symbolic link validation mechanisms. System administrators should conduct thorough inventory checks to identify all affected installations and ensure that all Lenovo software packages are updated to secure versions. Additional protective measures include implementing strict file permission controls, monitoring installation processes for suspicious symbolic link creation, and establishing secure software distribution practices that validate package integrity before deployment. The remediation process should also include network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of any successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in future software releases, as this type of vulnerability represents a fundamental flaw in secure installation package handling that could affect other vendors with similar implementation patterns.