CVE-2014-8789 in FileVista
Summary
by MITRE
GleamTech FileVista before 6.1 allows remote authenticated users to create arbitrary files and possibly execute arbitrary code via a crafted path in a zip archive, which is not properly handled during extraction.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8789 affects GleamTech FileVista versions prior to 6.1, presenting a critical security risk that enables remote authenticated attackers to manipulate file system operations through maliciously crafted zip archives. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path handling mechanisms during the extraction process of compressed files, creating a potential pathway for arbitrary file creation and execution within the target system's file structure.
The technical flaw manifests when the application processes zip archives containing specially crafted file paths that include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ constructs. These sequences, when improperly sanitized during extraction, allow attackers to write files outside of the intended target directory, potentially overwriting critical system files or creating backdoor access points. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which represents Path Traversal or Directory Traversal attacks, where insufficient restrictions on file paths permit unauthorized access to restricted directories.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using FileVista for file management and sharing services. An authenticated attacker with access to the system can leverage this weakness to escalate privileges, install malicious software, or compromise the integrity of the file system. The potential for arbitrary code execution makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could enable full system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of services. Attackers can exploit this through legitimate file upload and extraction functionality, making the attack vector both subtle and difficult to detect within normal network traffic patterns.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate system compromise, as it can facilitate lateral movement within networks where FileVista serves as a shared file management solution. Organizations may experience data loss, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage if attackers successfully exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter, as the ability to execute arbitrary code through file creation enables various malicious activities. Additionally, the weakness contributes to broader attack chains involving privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms that attackers can leverage to maintain long-term access to compromised systems.
Effective mitigation strategies include immediate patching of FileVista to version 6.1 or later, where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper path validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement strict input validation for all file upload operations, enforce secure extraction practices that reject or normalize directory traversal sequences, and establish network monitoring to detect suspicious file operations. Additional protective measures include implementing principle of least privilege access controls, conducting regular security assessments of file handling components, and maintaining up-to-date intrusion detection systems that can identify anomalous file creation patterns associated with directory traversal attacks.