CVE-2011-2755 in ServiceDesk Plus
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in FileDownload.jsp in ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus 8.0 before Build 8012 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2755 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus 8.0 prior to build 8012. This issue resides in the FileDownload.jsp component which processes file download requests without proper input validation. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied parameters that are directly used in file path construction, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate the application's file access behavior. Such flaws typically arise when applications fail to properly validate or sanitize inputs before using them in file system operations, allowing malicious actors to traverse directory structures beyond intended boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through unspecified vectors that enable remote attackers to craft malicious requests targeting the FileDownload.jsp endpoint. Attackers can manipulate input parameters to navigate the file system and access files that should remain protected or restricted. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which specifically addresses the issue of insufficient restrictions on file path manipulation. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary file reading capabilities, potentially exposing sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other confidential information stored on the server.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-2755 is severe as it enables remote code execution capabilities through file access, potentially allowing attackers to retrieve critical system files, configuration data, or even application source code. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. The threat landscape for this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 - Valid Accounts, where attackers leverage compromised systems to access sensitive files through legitimate application interfaces. Organizations using affected versions of ServiceDesk Plus face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations due to unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching to build 8012 or later versions where the directory traversal issue has been resolved. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent improper pathname handling in all file access operations. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of vulnerable applications to untrusted networks. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other applications. The implementation of web application firewalls and proper logging mechanisms can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security updates to maintain protection against similar directory traversal vulnerabilities.