CVE-2019-8461 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Check Point Endpoint Security Initial Client for Windows before version E81.30 has a vulnerability that could lead to Local Privilege Escalation (LPE) through a specially crafted DLL.

Understanding CVE-2019-8461

This CVE involves a security issue in Check Point Endpoint Security Initial Client for Windows that could allow an attacker to gain elevated privileges on the system.

What is CVE-2019-8461?

The vulnerability in Check Point Endpoint Security Initial Client for Windows before version E81.30 allows the loading of a DLL from any location specified in the PATH environment variable on a clean image without the Endpoint Client installed. This could be exploited by an attacker to achieve Local Privilege Escalation (LPE).

The Impact of CVE-2019-8461

The exploitation of this vulnerability could enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to a complete system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-8461

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The Check Point Endpoint Security Initial Client for Windows before version E81.30 attempts to load a DLL from any PATH location on a fresh image without the Endpoint Client installed, creating a security risk for Local Privilege Escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Check Point Endpoint Security Initial Client for Windows
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: Before version E81.30

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by placing a maliciously crafted DLL in a PATH location accessible with write permissions to the user, allowing the attacker to gain Local Privilege Escalation (LPE).

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-8461 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Check Point Endpoint Security Initial Client for Windows to version E81.30 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor PATH environment variables for unauthorized changes.
Restrict write permissions on PATH locations to prevent unauthorized DLL placement.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user permissions.
Regularly review and update security configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Check Point to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.