CVE-2017-3110 in Experience Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Experience Manager 6.1 and earlier has a sensitive data exposure vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/09/2021
Adobe Experience Manager versions 6.1 and earlier contain a sensitive data exposure vulnerability that allows attackers to access unauthorized data through improper access controls. This vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of user permissions when processing requests to the AEM content repository, enabling authenticated users to retrieve content they should not have access to based on their assigned roles and permissions.
The technical flaw manifests in the way AEM handles access control checks during content retrieval operations. When users make requests to the repository through the web interface or api endpoints, the system fails to properly enforce authorization boundaries. This occurs particularly when dealing with nodes and properties that contain sensitive information such as user credentials, system configurations, or proprietary content. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 which addresses improper access control issues, where the system does not properly enforce access restrictions on resources. Attackers can exploit this by crafting specific requests that bypass normal access control mechanisms, potentially gaining access to restricted content that should only be available to administrators or users with specific permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, user information, and system configurations. An attacker with basic user credentials could potentially access confidential documents, internal system details, or personal information of users within the organization. This exposure could result in data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of AEM's content management system, potentially compromising the integrity of the entire content delivery platform. Organizations using older versions of AEM are particularly at risk as the vulnerability exists in the fundamental access control implementation of the platform.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to Adobe Experience Manager 6.2 or later versions where this vulnerability has been addressed through enhanced access control mechanisms and improved permission validation. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit exposure by restricting direct access to AEM endpoints. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual access patterns or attempts to access restricted content. The mitigation strategy should also include regular permission reviews and ensuring that users have the minimum necessary access rights. Organizations should follow ATT&CK framework guidance for privilege escalation and credential access techniques, as this vulnerability could be leveraged for further attacks once initial access is gained. Patch management processes should be strengthened to ensure timely application of security updates and to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in the environment.