CVE-2016-5049 in ReadyDesk
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in chat/openattach.aspx in ReadyDesk 9.1 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the SESID parameter in conjunction with a filename in the FNAME parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/01/2024
The CVE-2016-5049 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in ReadyDesk 9.1's chat/openattach.aspx component that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the affected system. This vulnerability specifically targets the session management and file handling mechanisms within the web application's attachment processing functionality. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input parameters, particularly the SESID parameter that contains session identifiers and the FNAME parameter that specifies filenames for attachment access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the manipulation of the SESID parameter to include directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) combined with specific filename patterns in the FNAME parameter. This allows attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory structure and access files that should remain protected within the application's restricted file system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper path resolution within the application's file access routines, creating a pathway for unauthorized file system access.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant security risks to organizations using ReadyDesk 9.1 as it could enable attackers to access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and potentially system-level files. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit this vulnerability without requiring physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web-facing applications. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and follows patterns commonly associated with improper input validation in web applications. According to ATT&CK framework, this represents a technique for privilege escalation and information gathering through path traversal attacks. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation, enforce strict file access controls, and deploy web application firewalls to mitigate this risk. Regular security assessments and patch management processes are essential to prevent exploitation of such vulnerabilities. The incident highlights the critical importance of validating all user inputs and implementing proper access controls in web applications to prevent unauthorized file system access.