CVE-2019-11539 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Pulse Secure Pulse Connect Secure versions 9.0RX prior to 9.0R3.4, 8.3RX prior to 8.3R7.1, 8.2RX before 8.2R12.1, and 8.1RX prior to 8.1R15.1, as well as Pulse Policy Secure versions 9.0RX before 9.0R3.2, 5.4RX prior to 5.4R7.1, 5.3RX before 5.3R12.1, 5.2RX before 5.2R12.1, and 5.1RX prior to 5.1R15.1, are vulnerable to authenticated attackers injecting and executing commands.

Understanding CVE-2019-11539

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the admin web interface of Pulse Secure products.

What is CVE-2019-11539?

In Pulse Secure Pulse Connect Secure and Pulse Policy Secure versions, authenticated attackers can inject and execute commands through the admin web interface.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11539

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8.0, indicating a high severity level with significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11539

The technical aspects of the vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The admin web interface allows authenticated attackers to inject and execute commands.

Affected Systems and Versions

Pulse Connect Secure versions 9.0RX to 8.1RX
Pulse Policy Secure versions 9.0RX to 5.1RX

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: High
User Interaction: None
Scope: Changed

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-11539, consider the following:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches immediately.
Monitor network traffic for signs of exploitation.
Restrict access to the admin web interface.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all Pulse Secure products.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms.
Conduct security training for users to recognize phishing attempts.

Patching and Updates

Update Pulse Connect Secure and Pulse Policy Secure to the latest patched versions.