CVE-2015-6407 in Emergency Responder
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco Emergency Responder 10.5(3.10000.9) allows remote attackers to upload files to arbitrary locations via a crafted parameter, aka Bug ID CSCuv25501.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2022
Cisco Emergency Responder version 10.5(3.10000.9) contains a critical file upload vulnerability that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary file uploads to any location on the target system. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's file handling functionality, allowing malicious actors to manipulate parameter values and bypass security restrictions. The flaw specifically affects the parameter processing logic that governs file upload operations, creating a path for unauthorized code execution and potential system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload conditions where applications fail to properly validate file types, sizes, or locations during upload processes. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious parameters that specify arbitrary file paths, effectively allowing them to place malicious files anywhere within the system's file structure. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited remotely without prior access credentials. The attack vector leverages the application's trust in user-supplied parameters without adequate verification, creating a direct path for privilege escalation and persistent system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file placement, as it provides attackers with a potential foothold for more sophisticated attacks. Once successful, the adversary can upload web shells, backdoors, or other malicious executables that can be leveraged for persistent access, data exfiltration, or further network reconnaissance. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the Cisco Emergency Responder system, potentially disrupting critical emergency response communications. Organizations relying on this system for emergency services may face significant operational risks including service interruption, data compromise, and potential exposure of sensitive emergency response information.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the affected Cisco Emergency Responder version to address the underlying file upload validation issues. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the affected system, limiting potential attack surfaces. Input validation controls must be strengthened to ensure all file upload parameters undergo rigorous sanitization and path validation before processing. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file upload patterns and suspicious parameter manipulation attempts. Additionally, organizations should implement principle of least privilege access controls and regularly audit file system permissions to prevent unauthorized file placement. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.002 for content injection and T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the threat. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in related systems and ensure comprehensive protection against similar exploitation techniques.