Source: security@qnapsecurity.com.tw
An improper control of generation of code vulnerability has been reported to affect Malware Remover. The remote attackers can then exploit the vulnerability to bypass protection mechanism. We have already fixed the vulnerability in the following version: Malware Remover 6.6.8.20251023 and later
Malware Remover versions prior to 6.6.8.20251023 are vulnerable to a critical code generation flaw, allowing remote attackers to bypass security mechanisms and potentially execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability poses a significant risk of system compromise and data exfiltration.
Step 1: Payload Delivery: The attacker identifies a method to inject malicious input into the Malware Remover software. This could involve exploiting a web interface, uploading a crafted configuration file, or sending specially crafted network traffic.
Step 2: Input Processing: The Malware Remover software processes the attacker-supplied input, which is intended to modify or generate code used for malware detection.
Step 3: Code Generation: Due to the vulnerability, the software fails to properly validate or sanitize the malicious input. This leads to the generation of code that bypasses security checks or performs unintended actions.
Step 4: Bypass/Execution: The generated code is executed, allowing the attacker to bypass Malware Remover's protection mechanisms. This could involve disabling security features, injecting malicious code, or gaining unauthorized access to the system.
Step 5: Post-Exploitation: The attacker leverages the compromised system to achieve their objectives, such as data exfiltration, lateral movement, or further system compromise.
The vulnerability stems from an improper control of code generation within Malware Remover. Specifically, the software likely fails to adequately validate or sanitize user-supplied input that is used to construct or modify code. This could manifest as a flaw in how the software handles rules, signatures, or other configuration data used for malware detection. An attacker could craft malicious input designed to generate code that bypasses the intended security checks, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The root cause is likely a lack of input validation or improper sanitization of user-controlled data used in code generation, leading to a code injection vulnerability. This could involve flaws in how the software parses configuration files, handles regular expressions, or processes rule updates. The specific function responsible for generating or modifying the code is the likely point of failure.
While no specific APTs are explicitly linked in the CVE description, the nature of the vulnerability suggests it could be attractive to a wide range of threat actors. Given the potential for system compromise, this vulnerability is likely to be targeted by both financially motivated and state-sponsored actors. CISA KEV status is unknown, but should be considered for potential inclusion.
Monitor file system activity for unexpected modifications to Malware Remover configuration files or executable files.
Analyze network traffic for unusual patterns, such as unexpected connections or data transfers originating from the affected system.
Examine system logs for suspicious events, such as errors related to code execution or security bypass attempts.
Implement and maintain robust intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) to identify and block malicious activity.
Monitor for indicators of compromise (IOCs) related to known exploits or malware targeting this vulnerability.
Review Malware Remover logs for unusual activity, such as attempts to modify security settings or bypass protection mechanisms.
Immediately update Malware Remover to version 6.6.8.20251023 or later.
Implement robust input validation and sanitization techniques to prevent code injection vulnerabilities.
Review and harden the code generation process to ensure that all user-supplied input is properly validated and sanitized before being used to generate or modify code.
Implement a least-privilege model for the Malware Remover software to limit the impact of a successful exploit.
Regularly scan the system for malware and vulnerabilities.
Implement a web application firewall (WAF) to filter malicious traffic.
Monitor system logs and network traffic for suspicious activity.