CVE-2011-4785 in HP-ChaiSOE
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the HP-ChaiSOE/1.0 web server on the HP LaserJet P3015 printer with firmware before 07.080.3, LaserJet 4650 printer with firmware 07.006.0, and LaserJet 2430 printer with firmware 08.113.0_I35128 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-4419.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2017
The CVE-2011-4785 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in HP printer web servers that affects multiple LaserJet models including the P3015, 4650, and 2430 series. This vulnerability exists within the HP-ChaiSOE/1.0 web server component that runs on these devices, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the affected systems. The flaw specifically impacts firmware versions prior to 07.080.3 for the P3015, 07.006.0 for the 4650, and 08.113.0_I35128 for the 2430 printer models. Unlike CVE-2008-4419 which affects different vectors, this vulnerability specifically targets the web server implementation within the printer firmware, making it particularly dangerous as it provides access to sensitive system files and potentially confidential data stored on the device.
The technical implementation of this directory traversal vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the web server's file handling mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious requests that contain directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ that bypass normal file access controls. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary file reading through unspecified vectors, meaning that attackers can potentially access configuration files, system logs, user credentials, or other sensitive data stored within the printer's file system. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that these printers are often deployed in corporate environments where they may contain sensitive information or serve as entry points to internal networks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with potential access to critical system components and configuration data. In corporate environments, these printers often serve as networked devices that may contain network configuration details, user authentication credentials, or system logs that could be leveraged for further attacks. The vulnerability enables attackers to potentially escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to printer-specific functions that could allow them to modify print jobs, access network settings, or even use the printer as a pivot point for attacking other devices on the network. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210, which covers exploitation of remote services, and demonstrates how seemingly benign networked devices can become significant security risks when they contain unpatched vulnerabilities.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the latest firmware updates from HP to address the directory traversal vulnerability in affected printer models. Network segmentation strategies should be employed to limit access to these devices, ensuring they are not directly accessible from critical network segments. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous file access patterns or directory traversal attempts can help identify potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive inventory audits to identify all affected printer models within their networks and ensure proper access controls are implemented. The vulnerability underscores the importance of securing Internet of Things devices and networked peripherals, as these devices often receive less security attention than traditional computing systems, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking to establish persistent access within networks.