CVE-2011-2757 in ServiceDesk Plus
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in FileDownload.jsp in ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus 8.0.0.12 and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the FILENAME parameter. NOTE: this might overlap the US-CERT VU#543310 issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2757 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus version 8.0.0.12 and earlier implementations. This security weakness resides in the FileDownload.jsp component, which processes file download requests through the FILENAME parameter without adequate input validation or sanitization. The flaw enables malicious actors to manipulate the FILENAME parameter by incorporating directory traversal sequences such as .. to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary files on the server filesystem.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious requests that include sequences like ../../etc/passwd or similar path manipulation attempts to access sensitive system files, configuration data, or proprietary information stored outside the designated download directories. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it operates at the application layer, allowing remote exploitation without requiring authentication or local system access.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus, as it could enable attackers to extract confidential data including user credentials, system configurations, database connection strings, and other sensitive information. The attack surface extends beyond simple file reading to potentially allow for more sophisticated exploitation techniques such as privilege escalation or further system compromise. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can leverage this weakness from anywhere on the network, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed web applications.
The security implications of CVE-2011-2757 extend to compliance and regulatory requirements, as unauthorized access to system files often violates data protection standards and industry regulations such as pci dss, hipaa, and gdpr. Organizations may face significant penalties and reputational damage if such vulnerabilities are exploited successfully. The vulnerability's overlap with US-CERT VU#543310 indicates that this weakness was recognized by multiple security organizations, highlighting its severity and widespread impact potential across various implementations. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected systems, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures, restricting file access permissions, and deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious traversal attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper access control mechanisms in web applications to prevent unauthorized file system access and maintain data confidentiality.