CVE-2011-3487 in PlantVisor
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in CarelDataServer.exe in Carel PlantVisor 2.4.4 and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in an HTTP GET request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2024
The CVE-2011-3487 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in Carel PlantVisor 2.4.4 and earlier versions, specifically affecting the CarelDataServer.exe component. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation within the web server implementation, allowing malicious actors to exploit improper path handling mechanisms. The flaw enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the affected system by crafting specially formatted HTTP GET requests containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before processing file requests, creating an exploitable condition that bypasses normal access controls and file system boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of HTTP request parameters, specifically targeting the CarelDataServer.exe component's file access routines. When the server receives a request containing directory traversal sequences, it fails to validate or sanitize these inputs properly, allowing the attacker to navigate beyond the intended directory structure. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which defines improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory vulnerability. The vulnerability can be leveraged to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially system credentials that are stored within the application's directory structure. Attackers can traverse directories to access files that should normally be restricted, including system configuration files, log files, and potentially database files that contain sensitive information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Remote attackers can potentially access critical system files, configuration parameters, and user data stored within the PlantVisor application's directory structure. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial control environments where Carel PlantVisor systems are commonly deployed for monitoring and controlling critical infrastructure. The ability to read arbitrary files provides attackers with information that can be used for further exploitation, including identifying system configurations, accessing authentication data, and potentially discovering additional vulnerabilities within the system. From an attack chain perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as it enables initial reconnaissance and information gathering that can lead to more sophisticated attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3487 should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems, as the vulnerability has been addressed through official updates from Carel. Organizations should implement input validation controls at the application level, ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly sanitized before being processed by the web server component. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block malicious requests containing directory traversal sequences. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and restricting file system permissions can limit the damage that can be caused by successful exploitation attempts. System administrators should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software and ensure that proper security configurations are applied to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in the future. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation as fundamental security controls that should be implemented throughout all application development processes.