CVE-2021-27766 in BigFix Platform
Summary
by MITRE • 05/06/2022
The BigFix Client installer is created with InstallShield, which was affected by CVE-2021-41526, a vulnerability that could allow a local user to perform a privilege escalation. This vulnerability was resolved by updating to an InstallShield version with the underlying vulnerability fixed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/11/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-27766 represents a critical privilege escalation risk within the BigFix Client installation process. This issue stems from the use of InstallShield software during the creation of the BigFix Client installer, which itself contained a known vulnerability documented as CVE-2021-41526. The exploitation of this weakness allows local attackers to elevate their privileges within the system, potentially gaining administrative access that could lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability exists specifically in how InstallShield handles certain installation processes and file permissions during the deployment of software components.
The technical flaw manifests through the insecure handling of installation artifacts and temporary files created during the BigFix Client installation procedure. When the vulnerable InstallShield version processes the installation package, it fails to properly validate or secure certain system resources, creating opportunities for malicious code execution with elevated privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-787 weakness category, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions that can lead to privilege escalation when exploited correctly. The underlying issue affects the integrity of the installation process by not properly enforcing access controls during critical system modifications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within enterprise environments where BigFix clients are deployed. Organizations using BigFix for endpoint management and security monitoring face significant risk when this vulnerability exists, as attackers could leverage it to gain unauthorized access to sensitive systems and data. The vulnerability affects the security posture of entire networks since BigFix is commonly used for security operations, making the exploitation of this weakness particularly dangerous. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques and potentially to persistence mechanisms that could be used to maintain access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-27766 require immediate action to update the InstallShield version used in BigFix client packaging and ensure all affected systems have received the necessary patches. Organizations should prioritize updating their BigFix client installers to versions that utilize patched InstallShield components. Additionally, security teams should implement monitoring for unauthorized privilege escalation attempts and review existing access controls to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. The resolution involves updating to InstallShield versions that address CVE-2021-41526, which specifically targets the insecure handling of installation processes that enables local privilege escalation. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as mandatory access controls and privilege separation to reduce the impact if exploitation occurs.