CVE-2019-1674 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A security flaw has been discovered in the update service of Cisco Webex Meetings Desktop App and Cisco Webex Productivity Tools for Windows, potentially allowing a local attacker to execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges.

Understanding CVE-2019-1674

This CVE involves a command injection vulnerability in Cisco Webex Meetings Desktop App and Cisco Webex Productivity Tools, which could be exploited by an authorized local attacker.

What is CVE-2019-1674?

The vulnerability arises from inadequate validation of user-supplied parameters, enabling a local attacker to run arbitrary commands with SYSTEM user privileges by manipulating arguments during the update service command invocation.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1674

CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: Low
Scope: Unchanged
User Interaction: None
The vulnerability could potentially allow an attacker to execute commands with elevated privileges, posing a significant security risk.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1674

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows a local attacker to execute arbitrary commands with SYSTEM user privileges due to insufficient validation of user-supplied parameters.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco Webex Meetings Desktop App: Versions less than 33.6.6 and 33.9.1
Cisco Webex Productivity Tools: Version less than 33.0.7

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit the vulnerability, the attacker needs to manipulate arguments when invoking the update service command, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary commands with elevated privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected software to the patched versions (33.6.6, 33.9.1 for Cisco Webex Meetings Desktop App, and 33.0.7 for Cisco Webex Productivity Tools)
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities
Restrict access to the update service to authorized users only

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly
Conduct security training for users to raise awareness about potential threats
Implement least privilege access controls to limit user capabilities

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released fixed versions for both Cisco Webex Meetings Desktop App and Cisco Webex Productivity Tools to address this vulnerability
Ensure all systems are updated to the latest patched versions to mitigate the risk of exploitation