CVE-2017-11512 in ServiceDesk
Summary
by MITRE
The ManageEngine ServiceDesk 9.3.9328 is vulnerable to arbitrary file downloads due to improper restrictions of the pathname used in the name parameter for the download-snapshot URL. An unauthenticated remote attacker can use this vulnerability to download arbitrary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2020
The ManageEngine ServiceDesk 9.3.9328 contains a critical directory traversal vulnerability that allows unauthenticated remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the underlying file system. This vulnerability exists within the download-snapshot functionality where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the pathname parameter in the name field of the download-snapshot URL. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that permit attackers to manipulate the file path through specially crafted requests, effectively bypassing normal access controls and file system restrictions.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a well-documented weakness in software applications that fail to properly restrict file access to designated directories. The issue enables attackers to traverse the file system hierarchy and access sensitive files including configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other system artifacts that should remain protected. The lack of authentication requirements for exploitation makes this particularly dangerous as any remote user can leverage this vulnerability without requiring valid credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Attackers can potentially extract database connection strings, application configuration files containing sensitive information, and source code files that may reveal additional attack vectors. The vulnerability could be exploited to gain unauthorized access to system resources, leading to potential data breaches, system compromise, or further lateral movement within the network. Additionally, the exposure of application source code could reveal implementation details that aid in developing more sophisticated attacks against the system. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1083 - File and Directory Discovery and T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it enables attackers to discover and exploit file system information through public application interfaces.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file system operations. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided security patches or updates that address this specific directory traversal vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the ServiceDesk application to untrusted networks. Additionally, monitoring and logging of file access patterns should be enhanced to detect potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.