CVE-2019-11509 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

In Pulse Secure Pulse Connect Secure (PCS) versions prior to 8.1R15.1, 8.2 before 8.2R12.1, 8.3 before 8.3R7.1, and 9.0 before 9.0R3.4, as well as in Pulse Policy Secure (PPS) versions prior to 5.1R15.1, 5.2 before 5.2R12.1, 5.3 before 5.3R15.1, 5.4 before 5.4R7.1, and 9.0 before 9.0R3.2, a user with authenticated access (through the admin web interface) has the potential to exploit an Incorrect Access Control vulnerability. This could result in the execution of arbitrary code on the device.

Understanding CVE-2019-11509

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Pulse Secure products that could allow an authenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code through the admin web interface.

What is CVE-2019-11509?

CVE-2019-11509 is an Incorrect Access Control vulnerability found in various versions of Pulse Secure Pulse Connect Secure (PCS) and Pulse Policy Secure (PPS) products.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11509

The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8 (Critical) with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. An attacker with authenticated access can execute arbitrary code on the affected device.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11509

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker to exploit Incorrect Access Control, leading to the execution of arbitrary code on the Pulse Secure appliance.

Affected Systems and Versions

Pulse Connect Secure (PCS) versions prior to 8.1R15.1, 8.2 before 8.2R12.1, 8.3 before 8.3R7.1, and 9.0 before 9.0R3.4
Pulse Policy Secure (PPS) versions prior to 5.1R15.1, 5.2 before 5.2R12.1, 5.3 before 5.3R15.1, 5.4 before 5.4R7.1, and 9.0 before 9.0R3.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated attacker through the admin web interface, allowing them to execute arbitrary code on the affected device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-11509 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Pulse Secure PCS and PPS to the patched versions to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
Regularly audit and review access controls to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Pulse Secure promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.