CVE-2014-2513 in Documentum Content Server
Summary
by MITRE
EMC Documentum Content Server before 6.7 SP1 P28, 6.7 SP2 before P15, 7.0 before P15, and 7.1 before P06 does not properly check authorization after creation of an object, which allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code with super-user privileges via a custom script.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2513 affects EMC Documentum Content Server versions prior to specific service packs and patches, creating a critical authorization bypass flaw that enables authenticated attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code with super-user privileges. This vulnerability stems from improper authorization validation occurring after object creation within the Documentum Content Server framework, which operates as a comprehensive content management platform used extensively in enterprise environments for document storage, retrieval, and workflow management. The flaw exists in the server's access control mechanisms, specifically in how it handles permissions and privileges when new objects are created within the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a flaw in the Documentum Content Server's object lifecycle management where the system fails to properly validate user permissions immediately after object creation. When an authenticated user creates a new object within the system, the server does not adequately verify whether the user possesses the necessary privileges to perform subsequent operations on that object. This authorization gap allows malicious users to exploit the system by creating custom scripts that can execute with elevated privileges, effectively bypassing the normal access control checks that should prevent unauthorized code execution. The vulnerability specifically impacts the server's security model where object creation and privilege assignment are not properly synchronized, creating a window where unauthorized operations can be performed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, particularly in enterprise environments where Documentum Content Server serves as a central repository for sensitive business documents and data. An authenticated attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain super-user privileges and execute arbitrary code on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to confidential information. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Documentum Content Server including 6.7 SP1 P28, 6.7 SP2 P15, 7.0 P15, and 7.1 P06, indicating a widespread issue across the product line that would impact organizations relying on these systems for content management. Organizations using these vulnerable versions face significant risk of data breaches and system compromise, as the attack vector requires only authentication credentials rather than elevated privileges.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided patches and updates that address the authorization bypass issue in Documentum Content Server. The recommended approach involves upgrading to versions that include the specific fixes for CVE-2014-2513, particularly versions 6.7 SP1 P28, 6.7 SP2 P15, 7.0 P15, and 7.1 P06 or later. Security administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring and access controls to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability allows for privilege escalation without requiring special attack vectors or complex exploitation techniques. The flaw aligns with CWE-284, which describes improper access control, and represents a significant weakness in the system's authorization model that violates fundamental security principles. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation techniques and can be leveraged for lateral movement within compromised environments, making it a critical target for remediation in enterprise security programs.