CVE-2019-19151 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-19151, a privilege escalation vulnerability in F5 products, allowing authenticated attackers to access restricted file system objects. Find mitigation steps and best practices for prevention.
In BIG-IP versions 15.0.0-15.1.0, 14.0.0-14.1.2.3, 13.1.0-13.1.3.2, 12.1.0-12.1.5, and 11.5.2-11.6.5.1, as well as in BIG-IQ versions 7.0.0, 6.0.0-6.1.0, and 5.0.0-5.4.0, iWorkflow version 2.3.0, and Enterprise Manager version 3.1.1, individuals who have been authenticated and granted TMOS Shell (tmsh) privileges can access objects on the file system that would typically be restricted by tmsh limitations. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with lower privileges to access file system objects that are otherwise not accessible.
Understanding CVE-2019-19151
This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability that affects various F5 products.
What is CVE-2019-19151?
CVE-2019-19151 is a privilege escalation vulnerability that allows authenticated attackers with lower privileges to access file system objects that are typically restricted by tmsh limitations on various F5 products.
The Impact of CVE-2019-19151
The vulnerability enables attackers to access file system objects that are usually restricted, potentially leading to unauthorized access and information disclosure.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-19151
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
Authenticated users with TMOS Shell (tmsh) privileges can access file system objects that should be restricted, leading to unauthorized access.
Affected Systems and Versions
- BIG-IP versions 15.0.0-15.1.0, 14.0.0-14.1.2.3, 13.1.0-13.1.3.2, 12.1.0-12.1.5, 11.5.2-11.6.5.1
- BIG-IQ versions 7.0.0, 6.0.0-6.1.0, 5.0.0-5.4.0
- iWorkflow version 2.3.0
- Enterprise Manager version 3.1.1
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers need to be authenticated and granted tmsh privileges to exploit this vulnerability.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2019-19151, follow these mitigation steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary patches provided by F5 to fix the vulnerability.
- Restrict access to privileged accounts and regularly monitor for unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict access based on job roles.
- Conduct regular security training to educate users on best practices and security risks.
Patching and Updates
- Keep F5 products up to date with the latest security patches to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.