CVE-2017-14972 in Mondopad
Summary
by MITRE
InFocus Mondopad 2.2.08 is vulnerable to authentication bypass when accessing uploaded files by entering Control-Alt-Delete, and then using Task Manager to reach a file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14972 affects the InFocus Mondopad device running firmware version 2.2.08, presenting a critical authentication bypass flaw that compromises system security through improper access control mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically targets the device's file access controls, allowing unauthorized users to bypass the standard authentication procedures by exploiting a sequence of system-level interactions. The flaw represents a significant weakness in the device's security architecture, as it enables attackers to gain access to uploaded files without proper credentials, undermining the fundamental security model of the device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a lack of proper session management and authentication validation within the device's operating environment. When users attempt to access uploaded files, the system fails to properly validate the authentication status of the requesting user, creating a window of opportunity for exploitation. The specific attack vector involves the use of Control-Alt-Delete combination followed by Task Manager access, which allows adversaries to navigate the system's file structure directly without proper authentication. This technique exploits the device's insufficient input validation and access control enforcement mechanisms, particularly in the context of file system operations and user session management.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it creates potential pathways for data exfiltration, system compromise, and further exploitation within the network environment. Attackers could potentially access sensitive documents, configuration files, or other stored data that should remain protected. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by threat actors with varying levels of expertise. From a cybersecurity perspective, this flaw represents a violation of the principle of least privilege and demonstrates inadequate security controls in the device's authentication framework.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper authentication controls and session management mechanisms within the device's operating system. System administrators should ensure that firmware updates are applied immediately to address the identified flaw, as this vulnerability represents a known security weakness that has been documented in security advisories. The implementation of multi-factor authentication, proper access control lists, and enhanced session validation procedures would help prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect and prevent unauthorized access attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues, and could be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training for personnel who might inadvertently trigger this vulnerability through improper system usage patterns.