CVE-2023-41179 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in the 3rd party AV uninstaller module contained in Trend Micro Apex One (on-prem and SaaS), Worry-Free Business Security, and Worry-Free Business Security Services could allow an attacker to manipulate the module to execute arbitrary commands on an affected installation. An attacker must first obtain administrative console access on the target system to exploit this vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2023-41179

This CVE (CVE-2023-41179) is a security vulnerability found in the AV uninstaller module of Trend Micro products including Apex One and Worry-Free Business Security.

What is CVE-2023-41179?

The vulnerability in the 3rd party AV uninstaller module of Trend Micro products allows an attacker with administrative console access to execute arbitrary commands on the affected system.

The Impact of CVE-2023-41179

If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized execution of commands on the target system, putting sensitive data at risk and compromising the security of the affected installations.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-41179

The following technical details provide insight into the vulnerability and its implications:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the AV uninstaller module allows for the execution of arbitrary commands by manipulating the module on the affected system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Trend Micro Apex One 2019 (14.0) less than 14.0.0.12380
Trend Micro Apex One SaaS less than 14.0.12637
Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security 10.0 SP1 less than 10.0 SP1 Build 2495
Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security Services SaaS less than 6.7.3578 / 14.3.1105

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker needs administrative console access on the target system to exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the AV uninstaller module.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2023-41179, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Trend Micro promptly.
Monitor administrative access and restrict privileges to prevent unauthorized system manipulation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Trend Micro products to ensure the latest security fixes are in place.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Trend Micro to address CVE-2023-41179 effectively.