CVE-2014-3206 in BlackArmor NAS
Summary
by MITRE
Seagate BlackArmor NAS allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the session parameter to localhost/backupmgt/localJob.php or the auth_name parameter to localhost/backupmgmt/pre_connect_check.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2020
The CVE-2014-3206 vulnerability affects Seagate BlackArmor Network Attached Storage devices, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to gain unauthorized system access. This vulnerability specifically targets two endpoints within the device's web interface, creating multiple attack vectors for malicious actors to compromise the storage system. The flaw resides in the improper handling of user-supplied input parameters within the backup management functionality, which forms a core component of the device's administrative interface. The affected parameters session and auth_name are processed without adequate validation or sanitization, allowing attackers to inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the web server process. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of data stored on the NAS device, as well as potentially providing attackers with persistent access to the network infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization practices within the PHP scripts that handle backup management operations. When the session parameter is passed to localhost/backupmgt/localJob.php or the auth_name parameter is sent to localhost/backupmgmt/pre_connect_check.php, the application fails to properly validate or escape these inputs before processing them. This creates a classic path traversal and code injection vulnerability that can be exploited through HTTP requests. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which describes the failure to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into dynamic web content. Additionally, the issue demonstrates characteristics of CWE-94: Improper Control of Generation of Code, as the application generates code based on untrusted input without proper safeguards. The root cause lies in the lack of proper input validation and the absence of secure coding practices that would prevent malicious input from being interpreted as executable code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, potentially enabling attackers to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised device as a launch point for further attacks within the network. Since the vulnerability allows execution of arbitrary code on the target system, attackers can install malware, modify system configurations, or disable security features. The compromised NAS device becomes a potential pivot point for lateral movement attacks, allowing threat actors to access other network resources that may be protected by less robust security controls. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations that rely on NAS devices for data backup and storage, as it provides attackers with direct access to potentially sensitive corporate data. The impact is compounded by the fact that many organizations may not regularly update their NAS firmware, leaving these devices vulnerable to exploitation for extended periods. The vulnerability also violates fundamental security principles outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, specifically addressing the protection of systems and assets from unauthorized access and malicious code execution.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate firmware updates from Seagate to address the input validation issues in the affected PHP scripts. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to NAS devices, ensuring that only authorized administrative systems can reach the backup management endpoints. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious traffic patterns targeting the vulnerable endpoints, particularly unusual requests containing malformed parameters or unexpected code execution attempts. Access controls should be strengthened through the implementation of multi-factor authentication and role-based access controls to limit administrative privileges. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting the web server's capabilities and ensuring that the backup management functionality operates with minimal required permissions. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar input validation issues in other network components. The remediation process should include disabling unnecessary services and ports, implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious requests, and establishing automated patch management processes to ensure timely updates. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007: Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, which emphasizes the need for proper input sanitization to prevent command injection attacks.