CVE-2014-2027 in eGroupware
Summary
by MITRE
eGroupware before 1.8.006.20140217 allows remote attackers to conduct PHP object injection attacks, delete arbitrary files, and possibly execute arbitrary code via the (1) addr_fields or (2) trans parameter to addressbook/csv_import.php, (3) cal_fields or (4) trans parameter to calendar/csv_import.php, (5) info_fields or (6) trans parameter to csv_import.php in (a) projectmanager/ or (b) infolog/, or (7) processed parameter to preferences/inc/class.uiaclprefs.inc.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/02/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2027 affects eGroupware versions prior to 1.8.006.20140217 and represents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to perform multiple malicious activities through improper input validation and sanitization. This vulnerability exists within the CSV import functionality of the eGroupware platform, which is a widely used groupware suite for collaboration and business process management. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of user-supplied data passed through various parameters in multiple CSV import scripts, creating pathways for attackers to manipulate the application's behavior in dangerous ways.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves PHP object injection attacks that exploit the way the application handles serialized data during CSV import operations. Attackers can manipulate the addr_fields, trans, cal_fields, info_fields, and processed parameters through specifically crafted payloads that, when processed by the vulnerable scripts, result in unintended object deserialization. This process allows attackers to inject malicious PHP objects that can be executed within the application context. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited across multiple modules including addressbook, calendar, projectmanager, and infolog components, demonstrating the widespread nature of the flaw.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-2027 is severe and multifaceted, encompassing data integrity compromise, unauthorized file deletion, and potential remote code execution capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to delete arbitrary files on the server, which may include critical application files, configuration data, or user information. The ability to execute arbitrary code represents the most dangerous aspect of this vulnerability, as it allows complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of eGroupware's import mechanisms, making it particularly attractive to attackers who seek to establish persistent access or disrupt business operations.
The attack surface of this vulnerability spans across multiple attack vectors as defined by the ATT&CK framework, specifically targeting the execution and privilege escalation capabilities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-502, which describes "Deserialization of Untrusted Data" as the underlying weakness, and demonstrates how improper input validation can lead to remote code execution through object injection attacks. Organizations using affected versions of eGroupware face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where the platform serves as a central collaboration tool for business operations. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it an attractive target for automated attacks and malicious actors seeking to compromise enterprise systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-2027 should focus on immediate patching of affected eGroupware installations to version 1.8.006.20140217 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of vulnerable systems, particularly those running the CSV import functionality. Input validation should be strengthened across all user-supplied parameters, and the principle of least privilege should be enforced for application accounts. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious file deletion activities and unusual import operations can help detect exploitation attempts. Security teams should consider implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious payloads and conduct regular security assessments of collaboration platforms to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components.