CVE-2016-9045 in ProcessMaker Enterprise Core
Summary
by MITRE
A code execution vulnerability exists in ProcessMaker Enterprise Core 3.0.1.7-community. A specially crafted web request can cause unsafe deserialization potentially resulting in PHP code being executed. An attacker can send a crafted web parameter to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9045 represents a critical security flaw in ProcessMaker Enterprise Core version 3.0.1.7-community that enables remote code execution through unsafe deserialization techniques. This vulnerability resides within the web application's handling of user-supplied input during the deserialization process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected system. The flaw specifically manifests when the application processes specially crafted web requests containing maliciously formatted data that bypasses normal input validation mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize serialized data received through web parameters. When ProcessMaker processes serialized objects without adequate security controls, it becomes susceptible to object injection attacks where attackers can manipulate the deserialization process to execute malicious code. This type of vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-502 which specifically addresses unsafe deserialization flaws in software applications. The attack vector requires only a single crafted web parameter to trigger the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through simple HTTP requests without requiring authentication or complex attack chains.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations using affected ProcessMaker installations. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish backdoors, escalate privileges, and move laterally within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects enterprise-level ProcessMaker deployments, which typically handle sensitive business processes and workflow automation, making the potential damage to organizational operations and data integrity substantial. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, financial losses, and reputational damage if exploited successfully.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-9045 should prioritize immediate patching of affected ProcessMaker installations to the latest available versions that address the unsafe deserialization flaw. Organizations should implement network segmentation and web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious requests containing malformed serialized data. Input validation and sanitization controls should be strengthened to prevent malicious serialized objects from reaching the deserialization layer. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege for web application accounts and regular security assessments can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability aligns with several tactics in the attack technique framework including privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK matrix, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures beyond simple patching approaches.