CVE-2013-3626 in Verastream Host Integrator
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the Session Server in Attachmate Verastream Host Integrator (VHI) 6.0 through 7.5 SP 1 HF 1 allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary files via a crafted message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2024
The directory traversal vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-3626 affects Attachmate Verastream Host Integrator versions 6.0 through 7.5 SP 1 HF 1, specifically within the Session Server component. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables remote attackers to manipulate file system access patterns and potentially gain unauthorized system control. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper handling of file path references within the session server's message processing mechanisms, creating opportunities for attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute malicious code on affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic directory traversal attack vector where malicious actors craft specially formatted messages that exploit weak sanitization of user-supplied data. When the Session Server processes these crafted messages, it fails to properly validate or sanitize file path components, allowing attackers to manipulate directory navigation sequences such as ../ or ..\ to traverse file system directories. This weakness specifically impacts the file upload functionality within the host integration environment, where legitimate file operations are processed through the vulnerable session server component. The flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where such systems often operate with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it creates a pathway for complete system compromise and persistent backdoor installation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious executables, web shells, or other payloads that can establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in data exfiltration, system disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the affected system serves as an integration point between different network segments. Organizations utilizing Verastream Host Integrator for critical host integration processes face significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive mainframe and legacy system communications, potentially compromising entire enterprise data flows and business operations.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch application from Attachmate, as the vendor has released updates addressing the directory traversal flaw in affected versions. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the Session Server component, limiting exposure to only trusted network segments and authorized users. Input validation controls should be strengthened at multiple layers including application-level sanitization of all user-supplied data and implementation of strict file path validation. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and monitor system logs for suspicious file access patterns. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and represents a significant concern under the ATT&CK framework's T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1078 Valid Accounts tactics, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code and maintain persistent access through compromised session server components. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to verify that the implemented controls effectively prevent exploitation attempts and maintain the integrity of host integration environments.