CVE-2018-15960 in ColdFusion
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe ColdFusion versions July 12 release (2018.0.0.310739), Update 6 and earlier, and Update 14 and earlier have a use of a component with a known vulnerability vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary file overwrite.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/23/2020
Adobe ColdFusion vulnerability CVE-2018-15960 represents a critical security flaw in the July 12 2018 release and earlier versions of the web application framework. This vulnerability stems from the use of a component with known security weaknesses that allows attackers to perform arbitrary file overwrites within the target system. The flaw exists in the way ColdFusion handles certain component interactions, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate file system operations to overwrite critical files. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category of Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which directly relates to inadequate input validation and file access controls. The issue is particularly concerning because it enables attackers to overwrite system files, configuration files, or even executable components that could lead to complete system compromise.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2018-15960 requires an attacker to leverage the vulnerable component within the ColdFusion environment to manipulate file operations. Attackers can potentially overwrite files with malicious content by crafting specific requests that target the vulnerable component's file handling mechanisms. This arbitrary file overwrite capability allows for privilege escalation and persistent access to the affected system. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple file manipulation as it can be used to replace critical system files, web application components, or configuration files that control application behavior. Security researchers have identified that this flaw can be exploited through various attack vectors including web-based exploitation and potentially through compromised user accounts that have access to the ColdFusion administrator interface.
From an operational perspective, the exploitation of CVE-2018-15960 presents severe consequences for organizations running affected ColdFusion versions. The arbitrary file overwrite capability can lead to complete system compromise, data corruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Organizations may experience service disruption, data loss, and potential regulatory compliance violations if this vulnerability is successfully exploited. The attack surface is particularly wide because ColdFusion is commonly used for enterprise web applications, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1486 for Data Encrypted for Ransomware, as attackers could potentially overwrite system files to disrupt operations or deploy malicious payloads. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that many organizations may not have comprehensive monitoring in place to detect unauthorized file modifications.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by applying the official Adobe security patches and updates for ColdFusion versions affected by CVE-2018-15960. The recommended mitigation strategy includes implementing network segmentation to limit access to ColdFusion administration interfaces and enforcing strict access controls through role-based permissions. Security teams should also deploy intrusion detection systems with signatures specific to this vulnerability and monitor file system changes for unauthorized modifications. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other potentially vulnerable components within their ColdFusion environments. The implementation of web application firewalls and application-level controls can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be performed to ensure that the security controls remain effective against evolving attack techniques targeting ColdFusion applications. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in future releases.