CVE-2013-4855 in DIR-865L
Summary
by MITRE
D-Link DIR-865L has SMB Symlink Traversal due to misconfiguration in the SMB service allowing symbolic links to be created to locations outside of the Samba share.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2024
The CVE-2013-4855 vulnerability affects D-Link DIR-865L routers running Samba-based SMB services, presenting a critical security flaw that enables unauthorized directory traversal through symbolic link manipulation. This vulnerability stems from improper configuration of the SMB service implementation within the router's firmware, specifically allowing malicious actors to create symbolic links that point to directories outside the intended Samba share boundaries. The flaw represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that can be exploited to access restricted system files and directories that should remain isolated from network-based file access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the SMB service's insufficient validation of symbolic link creation requests. When an attacker successfully creates a symbolic link pointing beyond the designated share directory, they can traverse the file system hierarchy to access sensitive system resources including configuration files, authentication data, and potentially execute arbitrary code. This misconfiguration allows for the bypass of normal access controls that should prevent network-based file system navigation beyond the intended share boundaries. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the file system level within the router's network services, potentially exposing the entire device's file system to unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper system control. Successful exploitation can lead to complete router compromise, allowing adversaries to modify network configurations, access stored credentials, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the router's core network services and can be exploited by remote attackers without requiring physical access or authentication to the device itself. This makes it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where network infrastructure devices may be exposed to external networks without proper segmentation. The flaw can be leveraged to create persistent access points within network infrastructure, potentially enabling lateral movement and broader security breaches.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates from D-Link, network segmentation to isolate affected devices, and disabling unnecessary SMB services when not required for operations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-36 Path Traversal patterns, and maps to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and persistence through file system manipulation. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous SMB traffic patterns and symbolic link creation attempts. Device administrators should conduct comprehensive security assessments of all network infrastructure devices to identify similar misconfigurations and ensure proper access controls are implemented. Regular firmware updates and security audits remain critical for maintaining device security posture against such vulnerabilities that exploit fundamental service configuration flaws.