CVE-2013-3520 in vCenter Chargeback Manager
Summary
by MITRE
VMware vCenter Chargeback Manager (aka CBM) before 2.5.1 does not proper handle uploads, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-3520 affects VMware vCenter Chargeback Manager versions prior to 2.5.1, representing a critical security flaw in the chargeback management component of VMware's virtualization infrastructure. This issue stems from improper handling of file upload operations within the CBM system, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability exists in the manner in which the application processes uploaded files, failing to implement adequate validation and sanitization mechanisms that would normally prevent malicious content from being processed or executed within the system environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," indicating that the system lacks proper controls to prevent the upload of executable or potentially harmful file types. The flaw allows attackers to bypass normal file validation procedures and upload malicious payloads that can be executed within the context of the CBM service. This represents a classic remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited without requiring authentication or local access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where vCenter servers are often centrally managed and accessible across network boundaries. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that multiple attack paths may exist, potentially including direct web interface exploitation, API endpoint manipulation, or other upload mechanisms within the chargeback manager's functionality.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-3520 extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive virtualization infrastructure data. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain elevated privileges within the vCenter environment, potentially allowing them to manipulate virtual machine configurations, access confidential data stored within the chargeback system, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks against other network resources. The chargeback manager typically processes sensitive billing and resource allocation data, making the compromise of this component particularly concerning from both a security and compliance perspective. Organizations using VMware vCenter environments may face significant operational disruption, data breaches, and potential regulatory violations if this vulnerability is exploited.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-3520 should focus on immediate patching of affected systems to VMware vCenter Chargeback Manager versions 2.5.1 or later, which contain the necessary fixes for the file upload handling mechanisms. Organizations should also implement network-level restrictions to limit access to vCenter management interfaces, particularly disabling direct internet access to these systems and ensuring that only trusted administrative networks can reach the chargeback manager services. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict file type validation on all upload endpoints, deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious upload attempts, and conducting regular security assessments of the vCenter infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure file handling practices, which are fundamental requirements in the OWASP Top Ten security framework and align with NIST cybersecurity guidelines for protecting enterprise infrastructure components. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring and logging mechanisms to detect unusual upload patterns or unauthorized access attempts to their vCenter environments.