CVE-2008-1656 in ColdFusion
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe ColdFusion 8 and 8.0.1 does not properly implement the public access level for CFC methods, which allows remote attackers to invoke these methods via Flex 2 remoting, a different vulnerability than CVE-2006-4725.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2019
Adobe ColdFusion 8 and 8.0.1 contain a significant access control vulnerability that stems from improper implementation of public access levels for CFC (ColdFusion Component) methods. This flaw represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege and allows unauthorized remote attackers to bypass intended security boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects the remoting functionality that enables Flex 2 applications to communicate with ColdFusion components, creating an attack vector that operates outside the normal security context of the application server.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when ColdFusion processes remote method invocations through its Flex 2 remoting channel. While the system correctly enforces access controls for direct web requests, it fails to properly validate access levels when methods are invoked through the remoting interface. This creates a scenario where methods marked as public in the CFC component definition can be executed by remote attackers who have no legitimate access to the application. The vulnerability essentially creates a backdoor path that circumvents the normal authentication and authorization mechanisms that should protect these methods.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code and access sensitive functionality within the ColdFusion application environment. The attack can be particularly devastating as it enables remote code execution capabilities through the Flex 2 remoting interface, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over the affected ColdFusion server. The vulnerability is especially concerning because it operates at a level that can bypass traditional web application firewalls and security controls that might protect other application interfaces. This weakness can lead to complete system compromise and data breaches, as attackers can invoke methods that should only be accessible to authorized users.
The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 (Valid Accounts) and T1046 (Network Service Scanning) as attackers can leverage this weakness to escalate privileges and move laterally within the network. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor patch, restricting access to the Flex 2 remoting interface, and implementing network segmentation to limit exposure. Additionally, security teams should monitor for unusual patterns in remoting traffic and ensure that all CFC components properly define their access controls to prevent unauthorized method invocation. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that legitimate Flex 2 applications continue to function while eliminating the unauthorized access vectors that this vulnerability creates.