CVE-2015-3614 in FortiManager
Summary
by MITRE
Fortinet FortiManager 5.0.x before 5.0.11, 5.2.x before 5.2.2 allows remote attackers to obtain arbitrary files via vectors involving another unspecified vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3614 affects Fortinet FortiManager appliances running specific versions of the software, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on these network security devices. This issue represents a privilege escalation and information disclosure vulnerability that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the affected systems. The flaw manifests through unspecified vectors that leverage existing vulnerabilities within the FortiManager software architecture, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive data and system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and access control mechanisms within the FortiManager application. Attackers can exploit this weakness to traverse file system paths and retrieve confidential files that should normally be restricted to authorized administrative users. The vulnerability affects multiple version streams including 5.0.x before 5.0.11 and 5.2.x before 5.2.2, indicating a widespread issue across different FortiManager releases. This type of flaw typically falls under the category of improper access control as defined by CWE-284, where the system fails to properly enforce access restrictions for file operations. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only remote access to exploit, eliminating the need for physical presence or local network access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized administrative access. Remote attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can potentially extract configuration files, administrative credentials, and other sensitive data that could be used for further attacks within the network infrastructure. This weakness creates a pathway for attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to network security controls that FortiManager is designed to protect. The vulnerability's presence in multiple version streams suggests that organizations with deployed FortiManager appliances across different software releases may be simultaneously exposed to this risk. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1078 (Valid Accounts) and T1566 (Phishing) techniques, as it can be leveraged to obtain credentials and system information that can be used for additional attacks.
Organizations affected by CVE-2015-3614 should immediately implement mitigation strategies to protect their network security infrastructure. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to the patched versions of FortiManager software, specifically versions 5.0.11 and 5.2.2 or later, which address the underlying access control flaws. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to FortiManager appliances, limiting exposure to only trusted administrative networks. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and monitor network traffic for suspicious file access patterns. Security teams should also review and strengthen access controls for administrative accounts, implementing multi-factor authentication and least privilege principles to minimize the impact if other vulnerabilities are exploited. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security software and implementing proper network segmentation strategies to protect core security infrastructure components.