CVE-2019-9695 in Norton Core
Summary
by MITRE
Norton Core prior to v278 may be susceptible to an arbitrary code execution issue, which is a type of vulnerability that has the potential of allowing an individual to execute arbitrary commands or code on a target machine or in a target process. Note that this exploit is only possible with direct physical access to the device.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2023
Norton Core version 278 and earlier contains a critical arbitrary code execution vulnerability that represents a significant security risk for devices running this software. This vulnerability exists within the device's firmware or operating system components that handle input validation and command processing. The flaw allows for remote code execution when combined with physical access, creating a dangerous attack vector that could compromise device integrity and user data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only physical access to the device, eliminating the need for complex network-based exploitation techniques. This makes it especially dangerous in environments where devices might be left unattended or accessible to unauthorized individuals. The security implications extend beyond simple code execution, potentially enabling attackers to modify system files, install malicious software, or establish persistent backdoors within the device's operational environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the Norton Core software stack. When the system processes commands or data inputs, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the incoming information, creating opportunities for malicious payloads to be injected and executed. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-74 category of Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, which specifically addresses the failure to properly handle special characters or sequences that could be interpreted as commands. The flaw likely exists in how the software handles user input or system commands, particularly when the device is in a state where physical access is possible. Attackers can exploit this by crafting specific inputs that bypass normal validation checks and execute unintended code within the target environment. The vulnerability's susceptibility to physical access means that it operates outside normal network security controls, making traditional perimeter defenses ineffective against this particular threat vector.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted across various threat scenarios. Organizations and individuals using Norton Core versions prior to 278 face significant risks including unauthorized device control, data exfiltration, and potential use as a launching point for broader network attacks. The requirement for physical access reduces the attack surface compared to network-based exploits but increases the potential damage when successful, as attackers can operate with full system privileges. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries use legitimate system tools to execute malicious code. The threat model suggests that this vulnerability could be exploited by insiders, attackers with physical access to devices, or in supply chain compromise scenarios. The impact extends beyond immediate device compromise to potential lateral movement within networks where compromised devices might serve as entry points for more extensive attacks. Organizations may experience regulatory compliance issues and potential liability from data breaches resulting from this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to upgrade to Norton Core version 278 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the input validation flaws. System administrators should implement strict physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to devices running vulnerable software, including securing device locations, implementing access controls, and monitoring physical access points. The security community should consider this vulnerability as a prime example of why physical security controls remain critical in overall security strategies, particularly in environments where devices may be accessible to unauthorized individuals. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all devices running affected software versions and establish regular update schedules to ensure all systems remain current with security patches. Additional defensive measures include network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if a device is compromised, implementing endpoint detection and response solutions, and establishing incident response procedures specifically for physical access-based attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security software and the critical need for comprehensive security policies that address both digital and physical access controls. Regular security audits should include verification of software versions and physical access controls to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.