CVE-2016-6269 in Smart Protection Server
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in Trend Micro Smart Protection Server 2.5 before build 2200, 2.6 before build 2106, and 3.0 before build 1330 allow remote attackers to read and delete arbitrary files via the tmpfname parameter to (1) log_mgt_adhocquery_ajaxhandler.php, (2) log_mgt_ajaxhandler.php, (3) log_mgt_ajaxhandler.php or (4) tf parameter to wcs_bwlists_handler.php.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2020
The CVE-2016-6269 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting Trend Micro Smart Protection Server versions 2.5 through 3.0, prior to specific build numbers. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation in multiple web handlers that process file operations within the application's web interface. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating the tmpfname parameter in log_mgt_adhocquery_ajaxhandler.php and log_mgt_ajaxhandler.php scripts, as well as the tf parameter in wcs_bwlists_handler.php, to access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. The vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. These attacks enable unauthorized access to sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially user information stored within the server's file system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file reading capabilities to include arbitrary file deletion, creating a severe threat landscape for organizations using affected Trend Micro products. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to bypass authentication mechanisms and directly access critical system files, potentially including database files, configuration settings, and application source code. The attack vector requires no privileged access or authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from any network location. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1070 (Indicator Removal on Host), as it enables attackers to both discover system files and potentially delete them to cover their tracks. The exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious URLs with directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ that bypass the intended file access restrictions.
The security implications of CVE-2016-6269 are compounded by the fact that it affects multiple versions of the Trend Micro Smart Protection Server, indicating a widespread exposure across organizations that may have deployed these products for network security monitoring and protection. Organizations using affected versions face potential data breaches, system compromise, and disruption of security monitoring capabilities. The vulnerability's presence in web handlers suggests that the application's web interface lacks proper input sanitization and access control mechanisms, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths through web parameters. This creates a persistent threat vector that could be exploited for extended periods if not properly addressed. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution risk through file access and deletion capabilities means that attackers could potentially escalate their privileges by accessing system files or deleting critical components of the security infrastructure. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader attack surface assessment, particularly in environments where Trend Micro Smart Protection Server is used for critical network monitoring and security operations. The affected components represent core functionality for log management and web content filtering, making the exploitation impact particularly severe for security operations and incident response capabilities.