CVE-2019-18631 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Centrify Authentication and Privilege Elevation Services versions 3.4.0, 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.4.3, 3.5.0, 3.5.1 (18.8), 3.5.2 (18.11), and 3.6.0 (19.6) have a vulnerability in their Windows component that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within the Centrify process.

Understanding CVE-2019-18631

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Centrify Authentication and Privilege Elevation Services that affects various versions.

What is CVE-2019-18631?

The vulnerability in Centrify Authentication and Privilege Elevation Services arises from an unspecified exception when using partially trusted assemblies to serialize input data. Attackers can exploit this to execute arbitrary code within the Centrify process.

The Impact of CVE-2019-18631

By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers can execute arbitrary code within the Centrify process, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-18631

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The Windows component of Centrify Authentication and Privilege Elevation Services versions mentioned does not handle an unspecified exception properly during the use of partially trusted assemblies to serialize input data.

Affected Systems and Versions

Centrify Authentication and Privilege Elevation Services versions 3.4.0, 3.4.1, 3.4.2, 3.4.3, 3.5.0, 3.5.1 (18.8), 3.5.2 (18.11), and 3.6.0 (19.6)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by:

Creating a malicious application that establishes a pipe connection to the process and sends manipulated serialized data.
Using a crafted Microsoft Management Console snap-in control file.

Mitigation and Prevention

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

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Centrify promptly.
Monitor for any unauthorized access or unusual activities on the affected systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and systems to prevent vulnerabilities.
Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches from Centrify and apply them as soon as they are available.