CVE-2016-0784 in OpenMeetings
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the Import/Export System Backups functionality in Apache OpenMeetings before 3.1.1 allows remote authenticated administrators to write to arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in a ZIP archive entry.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2024
The directory traversal vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0784 affects the Import/Export System Backups functionality within Apache OpenMeetings versions prior to 3.1.1. This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that enables remote authenticated administrators to exploit the system's file handling mechanisms. The flaw specifically manifests when processing ZIP archive entries that contain directory traversal sequences using the ".." notation, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths beyond the intended directories. The vulnerability resides in the system's backup import process where proper input validation and path sanitization are insufficient to prevent malicious path manipulation attempts.
This technical flaw operates through the manipulation of ZIP archive entries that contain directory traversal sequences, enabling an authenticated attacker to write files to arbitrary locations on the target system. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of file paths during the extraction process of backup archives, allowing attackers to specify paths that traverse up the directory structure using the standard ".." notation. When the system processes these malicious entries, it fails to properly sanitize the file paths, resulting in the creation or modification of files outside the intended backup directory. The vulnerability is classified as a directory traversal attack pattern that aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. This weakness allows for arbitrary file system access and modification, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with the capability to overwrite critical system files, inject malicious code, or establish persistent backdoors within the Apache OpenMeetings environment. Remote authenticated administrators can leverage this vulnerability to escalate their privileges and gain deeper control over the affected system. The attack vector requires only authentication to the system, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised accounts. Organizations running vulnerable versions of Apache OpenMeetings face significant risk of data integrity compromise, system availability disruption, and potential complete system takeover. The vulnerability also enables attackers to manipulate system configuration files, potentially leading to further exploitation opportunities and persistent access to the environment.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to Apache OpenMeetings version 3.1.1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as restricting backup import functionality to trusted administrators only and implementing proper input validation for all file operations. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file system activities, particularly around backup and restore operations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper path validation and input sanitization in file handling operations, as highlighted by ATT&CK technique T1059.3, which covers execution through scripts and command-line interfaces. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in their software environments.