CVE-2019-3581 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

McAfee Web Gateway denial of service attack due to Improper Input Validation

Understanding CVE-2019-3581

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the proxy component of McAfee Web Gateway, allowing remote attackers to launch a denial of service attack through manipulated HTTP request parameters.

What is CVE-2019-3581?

The vulnerability in McAfee Web Gateway versions 7.8.2.0 and later stems from inadequate input validation in the proxy component, enabling remote attackers to exploit it for a denial of service attack.

The Impact of CVE-2019-3581

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.5 (High severity) with a LOW attack complexity and HIGH availability impact. Although it does not affect confidentiality or integrity, it can lead to service disruption.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-3581

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper input validation in the proxy component of McAfee Web Gateway versions 7.8.2.0 and later, allowing remote attackers to trigger a denial of service by sending a manipulated HTTP request parameter.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: McAfee Web Gateway
Affected Versions:
7.8.2, 7.8.2.5, 8.0, 8.0.2
Platforms: x86

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely by sending a crafted HTTP request parameter to the affected McAfee Web Gateway instances.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update McAfee Web Gateway to versions 7.8.2.5 or 8.0.2 to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and apply security patches and updates to all software components.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all security patches and updates provided by McAfee are promptly applied to the McAfee Web Gateway instances to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.