CVE-2019-12889 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in SailPoint Desktop Password Reset 7.2 allows unauthorized privilege escalation, enabling an attacker to elevate their privileges to NT AUTHORITY\System by exploiting the password-reset feature.

Understanding CVE-2019-12889

This CVE involves an unauthenticated privilege escalation in SailPoint Desktop Password Reset 7.2, where an attacker with local access to the Windows logon screen can escalate their privileges.

What is CVE-2019-12889?

The vulnerability permits an attacker to gain elevated privileges to NT AUTHORITY\System by manipulating the password-reset functionality.
The exploit requires physical access to the machine and involves connecting it to an internet-facing network.

The Impact of CVE-2019-12889

Unauthorized users can potentially execute privileged commands on the affected system, compromising its security.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-12889

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows an attacker to access the local file system and execute privileged commands through a command shell.

Affected Systems and Versions

SailPoint Desktop Password Reset 7.2 is specifically impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker gains physical access to the machine and connects it to an internet-facing network to exploit the password-reset feature.
By visiting a website that invokes local Windows system functions, the attacker can access the local file system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-12889 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable or restrict access to the password-reset feature on vulnerable systems.
Implement network segmentation to limit exposure to unauthorized users.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security training to educate users on best practices for system security.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by SailPoint to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance system security.