CVE-2015-3435 in Security Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Samsung Security Manager (SSM) before 1.31 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an HTTP (1) PUT or (2) MOVE request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3435 affects Samsung Security Manager (SSM) versions prior to 1.31, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to compromise affected systems through web-based file upload mechanisms. This vulnerability resides within Samsung's security infrastructure management software, which is designed to handle various security-related operations across Samsung devices and networks. The flaw specifically manifests when the system processes HTTP PUT and MOVE requests, allowing malicious actors to upload arbitrary files that can subsequently be executed within the system context. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental weakness in the input validation and file handling mechanisms of the security manager, creating an attack surface that can be exploited from remote locations without requiring local system access or authentication credentials.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of HTTP methods that are typically used for file transfer operations within web applications. When an attacker sends a PUT or MOVE request containing malicious payload data, the Samsung Security Manager processes these requests without adequate validation of the file content or destination paths. This lack of proper sanitization creates a path traversal vulnerability that allows attackers to place executable files in directories that are subsequently processed by the system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages standard web protocols that are commonly enabled and accessible in enterprise environments, making it difficult to detect and prevent through traditional network monitoring approaches. The flaw operates at the application layer of the OSI model, specifically affecting the web application security controls that should prevent unauthorized file operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-3435 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to affected systems and potentially enables further compromise of the broader network infrastructure. Once successfully exploited, attackers can establish backdoors, install additional malware, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for attacking other devices within the network. The vulnerability affects Samsung's security management ecosystem, which typically handles sensitive security operations including device management, access control, and security policy enforcement. This creates a particularly concerning scenario where attackers can compromise not just individual devices but entire security management frameworks that are supposed to protect organizational networks. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not need physical access to devices or knowledge of internal network structures to exploit the flaw, making it a significant threat to enterprise security posture and compliance requirements.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including updating Samsung Security Manager to version 1.31 or later, which contains patches addressing the file upload validation issues. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to affected systems, particularly limiting HTTP PUT and MOVE operations to trusted administrative networks. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts through monitoring of suspicious HTTP requests. Additionally, security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of affected Samsung Security Manager installations within their environments and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which addresses insecure file upload vulnerabilities, and represents a typical example of how web application flaws can enable remote code execution through improper input handling and insufficient access controls. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 for command and script injection, highlighting the persistent nature of the threat and the need for comprehensive security controls that address both the immediate exploitation and long-term system compromise aspects of such vulnerabilities.