CVE-2020-7358 in AppSpider Installer
Summary
by MITRE
In AppSpider installer versions prior to 7.2.126, the AppSpider installer calls an executable which can be placed in the appropriate directory by an attacker with access to the local machine. This would prevent the installer from distinguishing between a valid executable called during an installation and any arbitrary code executable using the same file name.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/18/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-7358 represents a critical security flaw in AppSpider installer versions prior to 7.2.126 that stems from improper input validation and insecure executable handling during the installation process. This weakness creates a path for local privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution attacks by allowing malicious actors with local system access to manipulate the installation workflow through directory manipulation techniques. The vulnerability specifically targets the installer's execution model where it invokes executables from predetermined directories without adequate verification mechanisms to distinguish legitimate installation components from attacker-controlled files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic insecure direct object reference pattern where the installer relies on predictable file naming conventions and directory structures to execute necessary components. When the installer attempts to execute a specific executable, it does not perform proper validation to ensure that the file being executed is indeed the legitimate component intended for installation rather than a malicious replica with identical naming. This behavior creates a condition where an attacker with local access can place a malicious executable in the target directory with the same filename as the legitimate installer component, thereby hijacking the installation process.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to achieve persistent code execution within the target system environment, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector requires only local system access, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by users with minimal privileges who may have legitimate access to the system. The vulnerability essentially allows for privilege escalation attacks where an attacker can execute malicious code with the privileges of the installer process, which typically runs with elevated permissions. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where local access might be granted to multiple users or where system administrators have local accounts that could be compromised.
The security implications extend beyond simple code execution to include potential data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and establishment of persistent backdoors. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to install malware, modify system configurations, or establish covert communication channels. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-706, which addresses the use of incorrect object references, and falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, as it enables adversaries to execute arbitrary commands through the compromised installation process. Organizations using AppSpider or similar security tools that rely on similar installation mechanisms should consider this vulnerability as a potential attack surface that could be exploited by adversaries with local system access, particularly in environments where multiple users have access to system resources.
Effective mitigation strategies include applying the vendor-provided patch version 7.2.126 or later which addresses the insecure executable handling by implementing proper validation and verification mechanisms. Organizations should also implement strict file system permissions and access controls to limit local user access to installation directories, employ application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized executable execution, and conduct regular security audits of installation processes. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for suspicious file modifications in installation directories and implement intrusion detection systems that can identify potential exploitation attempts of similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in installation and update mechanisms, emphasizing the need for proper input validation, secure file handling, and least privilege execution models to prevent similar issues in other software components.