CVE-2014-5341 in ownCloud
Summary
by MITRE
The SFTP external storage driver (files_external) in ownCloud Server before 6.0.5 validates the RSA Host key after login, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information by sniffing the network.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-5341 affects ownCloud Server versions prior to 6.0.5 and specifically targets the SFTP external storage driver component known as files_external. This flaw represents a critical security weakness in the cryptographic validation process that occurs during secure file transfer operations. The vulnerability stems from the improper sequence of security checks within the SFTP implementation where the RSA host key validation occurs after the authentication process has already been completed, creating a window of opportunity for malicious actors to exploit the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a flawed cryptographic handshake mechanism where the system fails to validate the server's identity certificate before establishing a secure connection. When users attempt to access external storage via SFTP, the ownCloud server performs authentication first and then validates the host key, allowing attackers who can intercept network traffic to potentially capture sensitive information during the connection establishment phase. This timing issue creates a scenario where man-in-the-middle attacks become feasible, as the system does not enforce host key verification until after the initial authentication has occurred.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of secure file transfer operations within the ownCloud environment. Attackers capable of performing network sniffing operations can exploit this weakness to capture authentication credentials, file contents, or other sensitive data that would normally be protected by proper cryptographic validation. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations relying on ownCloud for secure file sharing and storage, as it compromises the integrity of external storage connections that are expected to be protected by strong cryptographic assurances.
The security implications of CVE-2014-5341 align with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses in host key validation processes, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1566 for credential harvesting through network sniffing. Organizations using vulnerable versions of ownCloud should immediately implement patch management procedures to upgrade to version 6.0.5 or later, where the host key validation occurs before authentication. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing additional monitoring solutions to detect unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The mitigation strategy should also include reviewing and updating security policies regarding external storage connections, ensuring that all SFTP operations enforce proper host key verification prior to authentication completion.