CVE-2023-27795 in EasyInstall
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
An issue found in IXP Data Easy Install v.6.6.14884.0 allows a local attacker to gain privileges via a static XOR key.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-27795 affects IXP Data Easy Install version 6.6.14884.0 and represents a critical local privilege escalation flaw that stems from the improper handling of cryptographic operations within the installation process. This issue arises from the use of a static XOR key that remains unchanged across different installations and system deployments, creating a predictable cryptographic weakness that malicious actors can exploit to elevate their privileges.
The technical flaw manifests through the implementation of a static XOR encryption key within the software installation framework. When the installer performs certain cryptographic operations to protect sensitive data or executable components, it relies on a fixed key that does not vary based on system characteristics or random generation. This static key approach violates fundamental cryptographic principles and creates a persistent vulnerability that remains exploitable across multiple system instances. The vulnerability falls under the category of weak cryptographic practices as defined by CWE-327, specifically addressing the use of weak or predictable encryption keys that can be easily discovered or reverse-engineered.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to system security as local attackers who can execute code on the target system can leverage this weakness to gain elevated privileges. The exploitation process typically involves analyzing the installation binary to locate the static XOR key, which can then be used to decrypt protected components or manipulate installation files. Once the attacker gains elevated privileges, they can modify system files, install malicious software, or establish persistence mechanisms that would otherwise be restricted to authorized administrators. This type of vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and can lead to complete system compromise.
The attack surface for this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation, as it can serve as a foothold for more extensive attacks within a network environment. Attackers can use the elevated privileges gained through this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities, establish backdoors, or move laterally through network infrastructure. The static nature of the XOR key means that once discovered, the vulnerability remains exploitable across multiple systems without requiring additional reconnaissance or key discovery phases. This characteristic makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where multiple installations of the same software exist.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-27795 should prioritize immediate software updates from IXP Data to address the static key implementation issue. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all affected systems receive the necessary updates. Additionally, system administrators should conduct thorough security assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and monitor for unusual activities that might indicate successful privilege escalation attempts. The implementation of runtime application protection measures and behavioral monitoring can help detect anomalous activities associated with this type of vulnerability. Security controls should also include regular cryptographic audits to ensure that static keys are not used in critical system components, aligning with security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-57 for cryptographic key management and the MITRE ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation techniques. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.