CVE-2018-12306 in ADM
Summary
by MITRE
Directory Traversal in File Explorer in ASUSTOR ADM version 3.1.1 allows attackers to view arbitrary files by modifying the "file1" URL parameter, a similar issue to CVE-2018-11344.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-12306 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the File Explorer component of ASUSTOR ADM version 3.1.1 operating system. This security weakness enables unauthorized attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure by manipulating the "file1" URL parameter, effectively bypassing normal access controls and file system boundaries. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the web interface's file handling mechanisms, allowing malicious users to construct specially crafted URLs that traverse directory hierarchies and retrieve sensitive information from restricted locations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal attacks as weaknesses in input validation where user-supplied data is directly used in file system operations without proper sanitization. The flaw operates by accepting unfiltered user input through the URL parameter and processing it through the application's file retrieval functions without adequate path validation or normalization. This allows attackers to inject sequences such as "../" or similar traversal patterns that move up directory levels, ultimately accessing files that should remain protected within the system's restricted file access zones.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations utilizing ASUSTOR ADM systems, particularly those handling sensitive data or operating in regulated environments. Attackers could potentially access configuration files, user credentials, system logs, or other confidential information stored on the device, leading to potential data breaches, system compromise, or further lateral movement within network infrastructures. The similarity to CVE-2018-11344 indicates this may be part of a broader pattern of insecure file handling practices within the ASUSTOR ADM platform, suggesting that multiple components may be vulnerable to similar attacks.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate data exposure, as it can serve as a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within network environments. Security practitioners should consider this weakness in relation to ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers file and directory discovery, as attackers can systematically enumerate and access files that should remain protected. Organizations running ASUSTOR ADM systems should prioritize immediate patching or mitigation strategies, including implementing web application firewalls, restricting access to the affected web interface, and conducting thorough security audits of file handling components to identify potential additional vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper access control mechanisms in preventing unauthorized file system access and maintaining the integrity of enterprise storage solutions.