CVE-2017-18263 in Personal Cloud
Summary
by MITRE
Seagate Media Server in Seagate Personal Cloud before 4.3.18.4 has directory traversal in getPhotoPlaylistPhotos.psp via a parameter named url.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-18263 affects Seagate Personal Cloud devices running firmware versions prior to 4.3.18.4, specifically targeting the Seagate Media Server component. This issue represents a directory traversal vulnerability that allows unauthorized access to files outside the intended directory structure through a crafted parameter in the getPhotoPlaylistPhotos.psp endpoint. The flaw exists within the web application layer of the device's firmware, where user-supplied input is not properly validated or sanitized before being used in file system operations. The vulnerability manifests when the url parameter is manipulated to include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, enabling attackers to access sensitive files stored on the device's file system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the Media Server component of Seagate Personal Cloud devices. When a request is made to the getPhotoPlaylistPhotos.psp endpoint, the application accepts the url parameter without adequate sanitization or path validation. This allows attackers to construct malicious paths that bypass normal access controls and traverse the file system hierarchy. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal, which specifically addresses improper restriction of file system access through directory traversal sequences. The flaw essentially enables an attacker to read arbitrary files from the device's storage, potentially exposing personal photos, videos, configuration files, and other sensitive data that should remain protected within the device's designated directories.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for users of affected Seagate Personal Cloud devices, as it creates a potential pathway for unauthorized data access and exfiltration. An attacker who can send requests to the vulnerable endpoint could potentially access not only media files but also configuration files, system logs, and other sensitive data stored on the device. This represents a critical security weakness that could lead to privacy violations, data breaches, and potential further exploitation within the local network. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects devices that are typically deployed in home or small office environments where network security may be limited, making the device an attractive target for lateral movement and data collection. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1105 (Ingress Tool Transfer) as attackers could use the directory traversal to discover and exfiltrate data.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate firmware updates to version 4.3.18.4 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal vulnerability. Users should also implement network segmentation to limit access to the device's web interface, disable unnecessary services, and ensure that the device is not directly exposed to untrusted networks. Network administrators should monitor for suspicious traffic patterns and implement intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to exploit directory traversal vulnerabilities. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular vulnerability assessments of networked storage devices and ensure that all firmware updates are applied promptly to maintain security posture. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper access controls in embedded web applications, particularly those handling user-supplied data in networked storage devices.