CVE-2017-2815 in OpenFire User Import Export Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable XML entity injection vulnerability exists in OpenFire User Import Export Plugin 2.6.0. A specially crafted web request can cause the retrieval of arbitrary files or denial of service. An authenticated attacker can send a crafted web request to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/13/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2815 represents a critical XML entity injection flaw within the OpenFire User Import Export Plugin version 2.6.0, classified under CWE-611 which specifically addresses Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference. This vulnerability resides in the plugin's handling of XML data during user import and export operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system's XML parser. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of XML entities, allowing an attacker to manipulate the parsing process through carefully crafted XML payloads that reference external entities or perform local file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that an attacker who has already gained legitimate credentials can leverage this weakness to escalate their privileges or compromise system integrity.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an authenticated user submits a maliciously crafted web request containing XML data with embedded entity references. The OpenFire plugin fails to properly sanitize these XML entities, allowing the XML parser to resolve external entity references and potentially retrieve arbitrary files from the server's file system or execute denial of service attacks. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Information Repositories, as it enables unauthorized access to stored data and system resources. The attack vector specifically targets the XML parsing functionality within the plugin's user management interface, where XML files are processed for import operations. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack techniques or when the target system has sufficient privileges to read critical system files.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2815 is severe for organizations using OpenFire with the vulnerable plugin, as it provides attackers with a method to access sensitive user data, system files, and potentially gain deeper access to the underlying infrastructure. The vulnerability's authenticated nature means that it can be exploited by insiders or compromised accounts, making it particularly dangerous in environments where privilege separation is not strictly enforced. Organizations may experience data breaches, service disruption, and potential system compromise when this vulnerability is exploited. The vulnerability also affects compliance with security standards such as NIST SP 800-53 controls related to access control and information protection, as it allows for unauthorized data access and system manipulation. The attack can result in the exposure of user credentials, configuration files, and other sensitive information stored on the server, leading to cascading security incidents throughout the network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2815 should focus on immediate patching of the OpenFire User Import Export Plugin to version 2.6.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for XML entity validation. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to the OpenFire administration interface and enforce strict access controls for user accounts. Input validation and sanitization measures should be strengthened at the application level, ensuring that all XML data is properly escaped and validated before processing. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual XML processing patterns or attempts to access restricted system resources. Additionally, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins or components of the OpenFire installation. The implementation of web application firewalls and XML validation rules can provide additional protection layers against similar injection attacks, while regular security training for administrators can help prevent exploitation through social engineering or credential compromise attacks.