CVE-2015-2947 in KanColleViewer
Summary
by MITRE
KanColleViewer versions 3.8.1 and earlier operates as an open proxy which allows remote attackers to trigger outbound network traffic.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2947 affects KanColleViewer versions 3.8.1 and earlier, presenting a significant security risk through its implementation as an open proxy server. This software, designed for managing and enhancing the gameplay experience of the browser-based game Kantai Collection, inadvertently creates a network access point that can be exploited by malicious actors to conduct unauthorized outbound communications. The flaw fundamentally transforms the application from a legitimate game support tool into a potential vector for network-based attacks, as it allows remote threat actors to leverage the application's network capabilities for nefarious purposes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's handling of network requests and proxy functionality. When KanColleViewer operates as an open proxy, it accepts incoming connections and forwards them to external destinations without proper authentication or access controls. This configuration enables attackers to direct the application to establish connections to arbitrary IP addresses and ports, effectively using the compromised system as a relay for network reconnaissance, data exfiltration, or as part of larger attack campaigns. The flaw represents a classic proxy misconfiguration where the application fails to validate or restrict the destinations of outbound network traffic, creating an attack surface that extends far beyond the intended scope of the software.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple network access, as it can enable sophisticated attack vectors including but not limited to command and control communications, data theft, and network reconnaissance activities. Attackers can exploit the open proxy to scan internal networks, establish persistent connections to remote servers, or use the application as a stepping stone for further attacks within a compromised network environment. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise environments where the application might be deployed on systems with broader network access, potentially allowing attackers to use the proxy to pivot between network segments or access sensitive internal resources. This vulnerability directly aligns with attack patterns described in the attack technique matrix under the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically relating to proxy and tunneling techniques that enable lateral movement and data exfiltration.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability require immediate remediation through software updates to versions that address the proxy configuration flaw. System administrators should implement network segmentation and firewall rules to restrict outbound connections from the application, particularly preventing access to sensitive or restricted network segments. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for unusual outbound patterns and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper network access control implementation, as outlined in CWE categories related to proxy configuration and network access control. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments to identify similar misconfigurations in other applications and ensure that all network services properly validate and restrict connection destinations to prevent unauthorized proxy usage.