CVE-2019-3567 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2019-3567, an improper access control vulnerability in osquery versions before 3.4.0, allowing attackers to execute malicious code with elevated permissions. Find mitigation steps and best practices here.
A vulnerability in osquery versions prior to 3.4.0 allows an attacker to load a malicious executable with SYSTEM permissions by manipulating the extensions.load file.
Understanding CVE-2019-3567
This CVE involves improper access control in osquery, impacting versions before 3.4.0.
What is CVE-2019-3567?
In certain scenarios, an attacker can introduce a harmful binary into osquery's extensions.load file, leading to the loading of the malicious executable with elevated permissions.
The Impact of CVE-2019-3567
This vulnerability poses a security risk as it allows unauthorized execution of potentially harmful code with elevated privileges.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-3567
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from improper access control in osquery, enabling the loading of malicious executables with SYSTEM permissions.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: osquery
- Vendor: Facebook
- Affected Versions:
- 3.4.0
- Versions less than 3.4.0
Exploitation Mechanism
The attacker manipulates the extensions.load file to link a parent folder of a harmful binary to a folder with safe permissions, allowing the malicious executable to be loaded with elevated privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2019-3567 with the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade osquery to version 3.4.0 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Restrict write access by migrating installations to the 'Program Files' directory on Windows.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update osquery and other software to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential breaches.
- Conduct security audits to identify and address access control issues.
- Educate users on safe computing practices to prevent unauthorized system access.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to address known vulnerabilities in osquery and other software.