CVE-2019-3621 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been discovered in McAfee Data Loss Prevention (DLPe) for Windows 11.x versions earlier than 11.3.0, allowing a local user with physical access to bypass the Windows lock screen.

Understanding CVE-2019-3621

This CVE involves an authentication protection bypass vulnerability in McAfee DLPe for Windows, enabling a user to bypass the lock screen through specific actions.

What is CVE-2019-3621?

The vulnerability in McAfee DLPe for Windows 11.x versions before 11.3.0 permits a local user to bypass the Windows lock screen by terminating DLPe processes.

The Impact of CVE-2019-3621

CVSS Base Score: 6.8 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Physical
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: High
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Changed
The vulnerability requires physical access to the system for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-3621

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a local user to bypass the Windows lock screen by terminating DLPe processes.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Data Loss Prevention (DLPe) for Windows
Vendor: McAfee, LLC
Affected Versions: 11.x (less than 11.3.0)

Exploitation Mechanism

The user needs physical access to the system to exploit this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-3621 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure physical security measures are in place to prevent unauthorized access.
Monitor and restrict physical access to sensitive systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement multi-factor authentication to enhance security.
Regularly update and patch McAfee DLPe to the latest version.
Educate users on the importance of physical security practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply the necessary patches and updates provided by McAfee to address this vulnerability.