CVE-2019-6555 in Cscape
Summary
by MITRE
Cscape, 9.80 SP4 and prior. An improper input validation vulnerability may be exploited by processing specially crafted POC files. This may allow an attacker to read confidential information and remotely execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/26/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-6555 affects Cscape version 9.80 SP4 and earlier, representing a critical improper input validation flaw that can be exploited through maliciously crafted POC files. This vulnerability resides within the software's file processing mechanisms and demonstrates a fundamental weakness in how the application handles user-supplied data. The flaw stems from inadequate validation of input parameters during file parsing operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the application's behavior through carefully constructed input files.
This vulnerability operates as a classic buffer overflow or injection attack vector where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the contents of POC files before processing them. The improper input validation allows attackers to craft malicious payloads that can bypass normal security controls and execute arbitrary code within the context of the vulnerable application. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it enables both information disclosure and remote code execution capabilities, making it a severe threat to system integrity and confidentiality. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it can be triggered through simple file processing operations, requiring minimal privileges for initial exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-6555 extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data breaches and system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to read confidential information stored within the application's memory or file systems, potentially accessing sensitive business data, user credentials, or proprietary information. The remote execution capability means that attackers can establish persistent access to affected systems without requiring physical presence or additional attack vectors. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which specifically addresses improper input validation as a foundational weakness that can lead to multiple downstream security issues including privilege escalation, information disclosure, and denial of service conditions.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the techniques related to exploitation of software vulnerabilities and privilege escalation. The vulnerability's characteristics suggest it may map to T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) and T1068 (Exploitation for Privilege Escalation) tactics, as attackers can leverage the flawed input validation to execute malicious code and potentially elevate their privileges within the compromised system. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including input validation improvements, application sandboxing, and network segmentation to reduce the attack surface.
Mitigation efforts should prioritize the immediate deployment of vendor-provided patches or updates that address the specific input validation flaw in Cscape 9.80 SP4 and earlier versions. System administrators should also implement network-based controls such as firewall rules that restrict access to vulnerable services and file processing endpoints. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected systems that may share similar input validation weaknesses. The remediation process should include comprehensive monitoring for exploitation attempts and implementation of intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious file processing activities. Regular security testing and code reviews focusing on input validation controls will help prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in future software releases and align with industry best practices for secure software development lifecycle management.