CVE-2014-5449 in WebAccess
Summary
by MITRE
Zarafa WebAccess 4.1 and WebApp uses world-readable permissions for the files in their tmp directory, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information by reading temporary session data.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/30/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-5449 affects Zarafa WebAccess 4.1 and WebApp installations where temporary files are stored in a directory with world-readable permissions. This represents a critical configuration flaw that exposes sensitive session data to unauthorized local users. The issue stems from improper file system permissions where temporary session files contain confidential information such as user credentials, session tokens, and other sensitive operational data that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-732 as improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, specifically manifesting as insufficient file permissions that allow unauthorized access to temporary files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when local users can traverse the file system to access the tmp directory and read the world-readable temporary session files. These files typically contain session identifiers, authentication tokens, and other sensitive information that could be leveraged for privilege escalation or unauthorized access to user accounts. The flaw represents a failure in the principle of least privilege, where temporary files are created with overly permissive access controls that should be restricted to the specific processes that require access. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through unauthorized access to system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the stolen session data could enable attackers to impersonate users, gain unauthorized access to email accounts, and potentially escalate privileges within the Zarafa system. Local users with read access to these temporary files could reconstruct session information and use it to bypass authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability also creates a persistent threat vector since the temporary files may contain session data that remains accessible for extended periods, increasing the window of opportunity for exploitation. Organizations using Zarafa WebAccess 4.1 and WebApp are particularly at risk due to the widespread deployment of this email server solution in enterprise environments where sensitive data is routinely processed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-5449 should focus on implementing proper file system permissions for temporary directories. System administrators should ensure that temporary directories are configured with restrictive permissions such as 700 or 750, limiting access to the specific user or group that requires access to the temporary files. The recommended approach includes setting appropriate ownership and permissions on the tmp directory, implementing regular audits of file permissions, and ensuring that temporary files are properly cleaned up after use. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing automated monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to temporary directories and establish procedures for immediate remediation when such vulnerabilities are discovered. The solution aligns with security best practices outlined in the CIS Controls and ISO 27001 standards for information security management, particularly focusing on access control and asset protection measures.