CVE-2017-14123 in Firewall Analyzer
Summary
by MITRE
Zoho ManageEngine Firewall Analyzer 12200 has an unrestricted File Upload vulnerability in the "Group Chat" section. Any user can upload files with any extensions. By uploading a PHP file to the server, an attacker can cause it to execute in the server context, as demonstrated by /itplus/FileStorage/302/shell.jsp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14123 affects Zoho ManageEngine Firewall Analyzer version 12200, specifically within its Group Chat functionality. This represents a critical security flaw that allows unauthorized file uploads without proper validation or restriction mechanisms. The vulnerability resides in the file upload handling process where the application fails to implement adequate checks on file extensions, content types, or file attributes, creating an unrestricted upload path that can be exploited by any authenticated user within the system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes the weakness of unrestricted upload of file with dangerous type. The flaw enables attackers to bypass normal file validation procedures and upload malicious files including php scripts or jsp files that can execute with the privileges of the web server process. The specific path mentioned in the vulnerability description /itplus/FileStorage/302/shell.jsp demonstrates how the uploaded files are stored and potentially executed within the web application's directory structure. This creates a direct pathway for remote code execution where attackers can gain persistent access to the server infrastructure and potentially escalate privileges to compromise the entire system.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability has severe implications for organizations using ManageEngine Firewall Analyzer, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server. The impact extends beyond simple file upload capabilities since the uploaded PHP files can be leveraged for various malicious activities including data exfiltration, establishing backdoors, or using the compromised server as a staging point for further attacks. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system, as attackers can modify or delete files, access sensitive data, and potentially disrupt services. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in network security monitoring tools like Firewall Analyzer, where the compromise could lead to unauthorized access to network traffic analysis data and security event logs.
The attack vector for this vulnerability follows the patterns described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers target web applications to gain initial access. The exploitation process typically involves uploading a malicious file through the Group Chat interface, then accessing the uploaded file through the web server to execute commands. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including restricting file upload functionality, implementing strict file type validation, and applying proper access controls. The recommended defense-in-depth strategies include deploying web application firewalls, conducting regular security assessments, and ensuring timely patching of vulnerable components. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring of file upload activities can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in web applications, particularly those handling user-generated content, as highlighted in OWASP Top Ten Project recommendations for preventing file upload vulnerabilities.