Critical RCE Vulnerability Discovered in ClamAV Open-Source Antivirus Software
Executive Summary:
Cisco has patched a critical vulnerability in the ClamAV open-source antivirus engine, which could result in remote code execution on affected devices. The flaw affects multiple versions of the software and can be exploited by submitting a crafted HFS+ partition file to be scanned by ClamAV on an affected device. Successful exploitation of the vulnerability could enable an attacker to run arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition.
Why is this relevant for your company?
If your company uses any of the affected Cisco products, such as Secure Endpoint or Secure Endpoint Private Cloud, they are vulnerable to this critical flaw. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to take control of the device or disrupt its services, leading to a loss of data, productivity, and potential damage to the organization's reputation.
What action should your company take?
Your company should update the ClamAV engine to the latest version available, which includes patches for the identified vulnerabilities. They should also review their antivirus and security measures to ensure they are up-to-date and effective in mitigating potential threats. Additionally, they should remind their employees to exercise caution when handling email attachments or other files, as these can be used to deliver malware or other types of attacks.
Recommended by LinkedIn
What lessons can be learnt from this?
This incident highlights the importance of keeping software up-to-date and maintaining strong cybersecurity practices. Companies should regularly review their security posture, identify potential vulnerabilities, and take prompt action to address them. It also underscores the need for organisations to use multiple layers of security, including antivirus, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other defensive measures to reduce the risk of successful attacks.
Mitigations:
The following mitigations should be taken to address this issue: