CVE-2015-6003 in QTS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in QNAP QTS before 4.1.4 build 0910 and 4.2.x before 4.2.0 RC2 build 0910, when AFP is enabled, allows remote attackers to read or write to arbitrary files by leveraging access to an OS X (1) user or (2) guest account.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2024
The CVE-2015-6003 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in QNAP QTS operating systems that affects versions prior to 4.1.4 build 0910 and 4.2.x versions before 4.2.0 RC2 build 0910. This vulnerability specifically manifests when Apple Filing Protocol AFP is enabled on the QNAP device, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on these network-attached storage systems. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and path handling mechanisms within the AFP implementation, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file access requests through carefully crafted directory traversal sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the AFP service which is commonly used for file sharing between macOS and network storage devices. When an attacker gains access to either an authenticated OS X user account or a guest account on the QNAP system, they can leverage this privilege to perform directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability enables attackers to bypass normal file access controls and potentially read or write to arbitrary files on the underlying filesystem. This occurs because the AFP implementation fails to properly sanitize user-supplied paths, allowing attackers to use sequences such as ../ or ..\ to navigate outside of intended directories and access restricted system files or data.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-6003 is severe and multifaceted, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data loss. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and user information stored on the QNAP device. The ability to write arbitrary files opens possibilities for code injection, backdoor installation, and persistent access to the compromised system. Organizations using affected QNAP devices face risks including unauthorized data access, system integrity compromise, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects both authenticated and guest access scenarios, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by attackers without requiring valid credentials for a specific user account.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-23, improper restriction of operations within a limited context, and CWE-77, improper neutralization of special elements used in a command. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004, Valid Accounts, and T1566.001, Phishing, as attackers may leverage guest accounts or credentials obtained through social engineering to exploit the vulnerability. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation measures including disabling AFP services when not required, applying the vendor-provided security patches, and implementing network segmentation to limit potential attack surface. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in network services, particularly those handling file system operations, as outlined in security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 controls related to access control and vulnerability management.