CVE-2014-2967 in VRED
Summary
by MITRE
Autodesk VRED Professional 2014 before SR1 SP8 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via Python os library calls in Python API commands to the integrated web server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2967 affects Autodesk VRED Professional 2014 before SR1 SP8 and represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the software's integrated web server component. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that allow remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary Python code through the Python os library calls within the Python API commands. The flaw exists in the web server's handling of user-supplied input, particularly when processing API requests that involve Python scripting functionality. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious API commands that leverage the Python os library to execute system commands on the affected server, effectively bypassing normal security controls and gaining unauthorized access to the underlying operating system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the context of a professional visualization tool that typically runs on high-performance workstations or servers in enterprise environments, making it a prime target for attackers seeking persistent access to sensitive design and engineering data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and represents a classic example of command injection in a scripting environment. The flaw manifests when the integrated web server processes Python API commands without adequate sanitization of input parameters, allowing attackers to inject malicious Python code that leverages the os library to execute arbitrary system commands. This creates a pathway for attackers to escalate privileges and execute malicious payloads directly on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability specifically targets the Python API functionality within the web server component, where legitimate API commands are processed through a Python interpreter that has access to system-level operations via the os library. The attack vector involves sending specially crafted HTTP requests containing Python code that gets executed within the context of the web server process, which typically runs with elevated privileges due to the nature of professional visualization software.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-2967 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise and potential data exfiltration capabilities. Organizations using Autodesk VRED Professional in their design and visualization workflows face significant risk of unauthorized access to proprietary design data, intellectual property, and sensitive engineering information. The vulnerability enables attackers to establish persistent backdoors, deploy additional malware, or conduct reconnaissance activities within the network environment. Given that VRED Professional is commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and architecture where design integrity is paramount, the potential for supply chain attacks or industrial espionage increases substantially. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target systems from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or local network presence, making traditional network segmentation strategies ineffective against this particular vulnerability. Additionally, the integrated web server component often runs with elevated privileges, increasing the potential for privilege escalation attacks that could allow attackers to gain administrative access to the entire system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-2967 must address both the immediate vulnerability and broader security posture considerations. The primary remediation involves applying the official Autodesk patch or update (SR1 SP8) that specifically addresses this vulnerability by implementing proper input validation and sanitization for Python API commands. Organizations should also consider implementing network-level controls such as firewall rules that restrict access to the integrated web server ports, particularly if the web server functionality is not required for normal operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running the web server component with minimal required permissions and avoiding execution with administrative privileges. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls to monitor and filter API requests, conducting regular security assessments of the integrated web server functionality, and establishing network monitoring to detect anomalous API command execution patterns. Security teams should also consider disabling the Python API functionality entirely if it is not essential for business operations, as this eliminates the attack surface entirely while maintaining core software functionality. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices in web server components and the critical need for regular patch management in enterprise software environments.