CVE-2012-2289 in ApplicationXtender Web Access .NET
Summary
by MITRE
EMC ApplicationXtender Desktop before 6.5 SP2 and ApplicationXtender Web Access .NET before 6.5 SP2 allow remote attackers to upload files to any location, and possibly execute arbitrary code, via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/17/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2289 affects EMC ApplicationXtender Desktop and ApplicationXtender Web Access .NET versions prior to 6.5 SP2, representing a critical file upload and execution flaw that enables remote attackers to compromise affected systems. This vulnerability resides in the file handling mechanisms of the application, specifically within the desktop and web access components that manage document processing and storage operations. The flaw allows adversaries to bypass normal file upload restrictions and place malicious files at arbitrary locations within the target system's file structure, potentially leading to complete system compromise through code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the file upload functionality. Attackers can exploit this weakness through unspecified vectors that likely involve crafted file upload requests or manipulation of web parameters that control file destination paths. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files from untrusted sources without proper validation or sanitization of file paths and content. This weakness creates a pathway for attackers to upload malicious executables, scripts, or other harmful payloads to locations where they can be executed with the privileges of the affected application or system.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations utilizing EMC ApplicationXtender solutions, as it provides attackers with the ability to establish persistent access to systems and potentially escalate privileges. The remote exploit capability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to leverage this vulnerability. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, data theft, or the establishment of backdoors that persist beyond system reboots. The vulnerability's potential for arbitrary code execution creates opportunities for attackers to deploy malware, establish command and control channels, or perform lateral movement within networks where the affected systems reside.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches for EMC ApplicationXtender Desktop and ApplicationXtender Web Access .NET versions 6.5 SP2 or higher. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the affected components, particularly when they are exposed to untrusted networks. Input validation controls should be strengthened to prevent path traversal attacks, and file upload restrictions should be enforced through multiple layers of validation including file type checking, size limitations, and secure storage mechanisms. Additionally, monitoring and logging should be enhanced to detect suspicious file upload activities and potential exploitation attempts, aligning with the defensive strategies recommended in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for credential access and execution phases. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper access control and input sanitization in preventing unauthorized file operations within enterprise document management systems.