CVE-2019-20153 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability in the Determine (formerly Selectica) Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) software version 5.4 allows authenticated remote attackers to exploit an XML external entity (XXE) vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive files.

Understanding CVE-2019-20153

This CVE identifies a security flaw in the Determine CLM software version 5.4 that can be leveraged by attackers to access confidential information.

What is CVE-2019-20153?

This vulnerability, known as XML external entity (XXE), enables authenticated remote attackers to read arbitrary files, including sensitive administrative credentials, through the upload definition feature in the software.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20153

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as attackers can potentially access and extract sensitive configuration files containing administrative credentials, leading to unauthorized access and potential data breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20153

The technical aspects of the vulnerability are crucial to understanding its implications and mitigating risks.

Vulnerability Description

The XXE vulnerability in Determine CLM version 5.4 allows authenticated remote attackers to read arbitrary files, including critical configuration files that may contain administrative credentials.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Determine (formerly Selectica) Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) software version 5.4
Vendor: N/A
Version: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability through the upload definition feature in the software, gaining unauthorized access to sensitive files, potentially compromising the security of the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2019-20153 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures to safeguard systems and data.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to the latest version of the software to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities indicating exploitation attempts.
Restrict access to sensitive files and credentials to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
Educate users on best practices for secure file handling and data access.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches and updates provided by the software vendor to mitigate known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.