CVE-2012-2414 in Asterisk
Summary
by MITRE
main/manager.c in the Manager Interface in Asterisk Open Source 1.6.2.x before 1.6.2.24, 1.8.x before 1.8.11.1, and 10.x before 10.3.1 and Asterisk Business Edition C.3.x before C.3.7.4 does not properly enforce System class authorization requirements, which allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands via (1) the originate action in the MixMonitor application, (2) the SHELL and EVAL functions in the GetVar manager action, or (3) the SHELL and EVAL functions in the Status manager action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2414 represents a critical authorization flaw in the Manager Interface of Asterisk Open Source and Business Edition systems. This issue affects multiple versions including 1.6.2.x before 1.6.2.24, 1.8.x before 1.8.11.1, 10.x before 10.3.1, and C.3.x before C.3.7.4, demonstrating the widespread nature of this authorization bypass vulnerability. The flaw resides in the main/manager.c file and specifically targets the System class authorization requirements that should normally prevent unauthorized command execution within the Asterisk environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper enforcement of authorization checks within the Manager Interface component. Attackers who have authenticated access to the system can exploit this weakness to execute arbitrary commands through three distinct vectors. The first vector involves the originate action within the MixMonitor application, where unauthorized command execution becomes possible. The second and third vectors leverage the SHELL and EVAL functions available in both the GetVar and Status manager actions, creating multiple pathways for exploitation. These functions are designed to allow system-level operations but fail to properly validate whether the authenticated user possesses the necessary System class permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations utilizing Asterisk systems. Remote authenticated attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The ability to execute shell commands through the manager interface means attackers can access system resources, modify configurations, escalate privileges, and potentially establish persistent access. This vulnerability essentially allows attackers to bypass the intended security boundaries of the system, transforming legitimate authenticated access into a full system compromise. The implications extend beyond simple command execution to include potential data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and further lateral movement within network environments where Asterisk systems operate.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the patched versions of Asterisk as specified in the CVE references, which address the authorization bypass through proper enforcement of System class requirements. Network segmentation and access control measures should be strengthened to limit manager interface access to trusted sources only. The implementation of principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that only necessary users have access to the manager interface and that appropriate authorization levels are maintained. Additionally, monitoring and logging of manager interface activities should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-285 which addresses improper authorization issues, and represents a clear violation of the ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically through the use of shell commands executed via the manager interface. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify patterns associated with the exploitation vectors described in the vulnerability.