CVE-2014-7985 in EspoCRM
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in EspoCRM before 2.6.0 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the action parameter to install/index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2022
The CVE-2014-7985 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in EspoCRM versions prior to 2.6.0 that exposes the application to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the installation script at install/index.php where the action parameter fails to properly validate user input containing directory traversal sequences. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms by injecting .. (dot dot) sequences into the action parameter, thereby gaining access to arbitrary local files on the server filesystem. Such directory traversal vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-22 category, which classifies improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system without requiring authentication, making it a severe threat to web application security.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request to the install/index.php endpoint with an action parameter containing directory traversal sequences. When the application processes this parameter without adequate input sanitization, it inadvertently resolves the traversal sequences and includes local files from unexpected locations. This can lead to the execution of malicious code, disclosure of sensitive files, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper input validation and sanitization, where user-supplied data is directly used in file operations without appropriate security checks. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to the T1059.007 technique for command and script injection, specifically targeting the execution of arbitrary code through file inclusion mechanisms. The attack chain typically involves the attacker identifying the vulnerable parameter, crafting the appropriate traversal payload, and then executing malicious code within the context of the web application.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-7985 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, and other system files that may contain critical information. The vulnerability affects the entire installation process of EspoCRM, making it particularly dangerous during system deployment or updates when the vulnerable installation script is accessible. Organizations running affected versions face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability also impacts the principle of least privilege as it allows unauthenticated remote code execution, bypassing normal access controls and authentication mechanisms. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a common pattern in web application security flaws where insufficient input validation leads to critical system compromise. The remediation approach requires immediate patching to version 2.6.0 or later, along with implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent similar issues in other components of the application.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in web applications. Organizations should implement comprehensive security testing including static code analysis and dynamic application security testing to identify similar path traversal vulnerabilities in their applications. The vulnerability also underscores the need for regular security updates and patch management processes to protect against known exploits. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection against such attacks. Security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts and maintain proper incident response procedures to handle potential breaches. The vulnerability serves as a reminder that even seemingly simple operations like file inclusion can become critical security risks when proper validation and sanitization are not implemented. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and restricting access to installation scripts to minimize the attack surface. Regular security awareness training for developers can help prevent similar issues in future application development cycles by emphasizing secure coding practices and the importance of input validation.