CVE-2019-8459 in Endpoint Security Client
Summary
by MITRE
Check Point Endpoint Security Client for Windows, with the VPN blade, before version E80.83, starts a process without using quotes in the path. This can cause loading of a previously placed executable with a name similar to the parts of the path, instead of the intended one.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-8459 affects Check Point Endpoint Security Client for Windows when used with the VPN blade functionality. This issue represents a classic path traversal and executable loading vulnerability that stems from improper handling of file paths during process execution. The flaw exists in versions prior to E80.83, indicating a specific regression or oversight in the software development lifecycle that allowed insecure path resolution mechanisms to persist in production builds.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the client application's failure to properly quote file paths when launching processes. When Windows resolves executable paths, it follows a specific search order that includes the current directory and system PATH directories. Without proper quoting, the system may interpret partial path components as executable names, leading to unintended code execution. This behavior directly aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS command injection attacks, and specifically relates to CWE-428, which addresses the use of unquoted search paths.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it creates a persistent attack surface that can be exploited by malicious actors with local access to the affected system. An attacker could place a malicious executable file in a directory that would be searched during the path resolution process, potentially causing the system to execute the malicious code instead of the intended Check Point client components. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting Windows Command Prompt execution, and represents a privilege escalation vector that could allow attackers to gain elevated system privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching to version E80.83 or later, which addresses the path quoting issue in the affected software. Organizations should also implement application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized binaries, particularly in directories that may be searched during path resolution. Network administrators should monitor for suspicious file placement activities in system directories and implement proper access controls to prevent unauthorized users from placing malicious executables in locations that could be traversed during normal application operation. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation when handling file paths and process execution in security applications.