CVE-2016-4834 in vTiger
Summary
by MITRE
modules/Users/actions/Save.php in Vtiger CRM 6.4.0 and earlier does not properly restrict user-save actions, which allows remote authenticated users to create or modify user accounts via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4834 resides within the Vtiger CRM 6.4.0 and earlier versions, specifically within the modules/Users/actions/Save.php file. This represents a critical authorization flaw that undermines the integrity of user account management processes. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms that permit authenticated users to perform unauthorized user account modifications. The vulnerability affects the core user management functionality of the CRM system, potentially allowing malicious actors with legitimate credentials to escalate their privileges or create unauthorized accounts within the organization's user directory.
The technical flaw manifests in the improper restriction of user-save actions within the application's permission model. When users attempt to save or modify user accounts through the specified PHP script, the system fails to adequately validate whether the authenticated user possesses sufficient privileges to perform the requested operations. This weakness creates an authorization bypass scenario where users can manipulate the user creation and modification processes through unspecified vectors that likely involve parameter manipulation or direct API endpoint access. The vulnerability operates at the application logic level, exploiting a gap in the access control implementation that should normally prevent users from creating or altering accounts outside their authorized scope.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations utilizing Vtiger CRM 6.4.0 or earlier versions. Attackers who gain access to legitimate user credentials can exploit this flaw to create new user accounts with elevated privileges or modify existing accounts to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data and system resources. The impact extends beyond simple account manipulation as it can facilitate persistent access, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within the organization's network. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can lead to complete system compromise if attackers can create accounts with administrative capabilities. The attack vector requires only authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised legitimate users.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to Vtiger CRM versions that address this vulnerability, typically versions 6.4.1 or later where proper access controls have been implemented. Network segmentation and monitoring of user account creation activities should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior patterns. The implementation of multi-factor authentication and strict access control policies can help reduce the impact if exploitation occurs. Security teams should conduct thorough audits of user account management processes and implement automated monitoring for unauthorized account modifications. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-285, which addresses improper authorization in software systems, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and privilege escalation. Regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs should include checks for similar authorization flaws in custom applications and third-party software components. Organizations must also ensure that all user account management interfaces properly validate permissions and implement comprehensive logging of account modification activities to maintain audit trails and detect potential exploitation attempts.