CVE-2013-6688 in Unified Communications Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the license-upload interface in the Enterprise License Manager (ELM) component in Cisco Unified Communications Manager 9.1(1) and earlier allows remote authenticated users to create arbitrary files via a crafted path, aka Bug ID CSCui58222.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/02/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6688 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Cisco Unified Communications Manager's Enterprise License Manager component. This issue affects versions 9.1(1) and earlier, exposing systems to potential unauthorized file creation through maliciously crafted paths. The vulnerability specifically targets the license-upload interface, which is designed to handle license file uploads but fails to properly validate or sanitize input paths, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by authenticated attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the ELM component's file handling processes. When users submit license files through the upload interface, the system does not adequately sanitize the file paths provided in the request. This allows attackers to manipulate the upload destination by including directory traversal sequences such as "../" in their crafted paths, potentially enabling them to write files to arbitrary locations on the system. The flaw operates at the application layer and requires authentication to exploit, making it a privilege escalation vulnerability that can be particularly dangerous when combined with other attack vectors.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant security risks for organizations using affected Cisco Unified Communications Manager versions. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to place malicious files in critical system directories, potentially leading to privilege escalation, backdoor installation, or system compromise. The ability to create arbitrary files means attackers could overwrite legitimate system files, inject malicious code, or establish persistent access points within the communication infrastructure. This threat is particularly concerning given that Cisco Unified Communications Manager systems typically serve as core components of enterprise communication networks, making them attractive targets for sophisticated attacks.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in relation to CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal flaws in software applications. The vulnerability also maps to several ATT&CK tactics including TA0003 (Persistence) and TA0004 (Privilege Escalation) as attackers can leverage the file creation capability to establish long-term access and elevate their privileges within the system. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems, implementing network segmentation to limit access to the license upload interface, and monitoring for suspicious file creation activities in system directories. Additionally, implementing proper input validation controls and restricting file upload capabilities to only necessary users can significantly reduce the attack surface and mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.