CVE-2017-1000197 in October
Summary
by MITRE
October CMS build 412 is vulnerable to file path modification in asset move functionality resulting in creating creating malicious files on the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000197 affects October CMS version 412 and represents a critical path traversal flaw within the asset management system. This vulnerability resides in the file move functionality that allows unauthorized users to manipulate file paths during asset operations. The flaw enables attackers to specify arbitrary file paths that can bypass normal directory restrictions and potentially write malicious files to sensitive locations on the server filesystem. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of file path parameters within the asset handling routines, creating a pathway for directory traversal attacks that can result in arbitrary code execution or data compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper path validation mechanisms in October CMS's asset management subsystem. When users attempt to move or manipulate assets within the CMS, the system processes file paths without sufficient sanitization checks that would normally prevent traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ from being interpreted as legitimate path components. This weakness allows attackers to craft malicious file paths that, when processed by the system, can create files in unintended directories or overwrite existing system files. The vulnerability specifically targets the move functionality rather than upload or other asset operations, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to modify existing files rather than just create new ones.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-1000197 extends beyond simple file creation capabilities and represents a significant threat to system integrity and security. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution through the creation of malicious files in web-accessible directories, privilege escalation by overwriting system binaries, or data exfiltration through the creation of files in sensitive locations. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the CMS asset management system, potentially compromising the entire web application stack. Organizations using October CMS version 412 are at risk of complete system compromise if this vulnerability is exploited, as it provides attackers with the ability to modify critical system files and establish persistent access to the affected servers.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the October CMS installation to the latest secure version that addresses the path traversal flaw. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization measures for all file path operations within their CMS systems, ensuring that directory traversal sequences are properly detected and rejected. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the CMS to untrusted users, while regular security audits should verify that no malicious files have been created through exploitation of this vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file creation patterns or modifications to system directories that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-73 Path Traversal, and represents a technique that could be categorized under ATT&CK tactic TA0004 Privilege Escalation through file system manipulation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and file integrity monitoring solutions to provide additional layers of protection against similar path traversal vulnerabilities in their web applications.