CVE-2018-2467 in BusinessObjects BI Platform Servers
Summary
by MITRE
In the Software Development Kit in SAP BusinessObjects BI Platform Servers, versions 4.1 and 4.2, using the specially crafted URL in a Web Browser such as Chrome the system returns an error with the path of the used application server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/01/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-2467 affects SAP BusinessObjects BI Platform Servers version 4.1 and 4.2, representing a critical information disclosure flaw within the software development kit component. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation when processing specially crafted URLs through web browsers such as Chrome, leading to the exposure of sensitive server path information in error responses. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-200, which encompasses information exposure through outputting error messages containing sensitive data, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1211 for Exfiltration Over Other Network Medium where attackers can leverage such information to further compromise the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the web application's inadequate handling of malformed or crafted URLs that trigger internal error conditions. When users access specific malicious URLs through supported browsers, the system generates error responses that inadvertently include the full file path of the application server in the returned HTML output. This path disclosure provides attackers with detailed information about the server's directory structure, potentially revealing the operating system type, installation paths, and underlying file system organization. The vulnerability specifically impacts the SDK functionality, which is designed for developers to integrate with the business intelligence platform, making it particularly concerning for environments where development tools are accessible to unauthorized users.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-2467 extends beyond simple information disclosure, creating potential entry points for more sophisticated attacks. Attackers can utilize the exposed path information to conduct directory traversal attacks, identify system vulnerabilities, or plan targeted exploitation strategies against the underlying infrastructure. The presence of this information in error responses violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and defense in depth, as it provides attackers with reconnaissance data that would normally remain hidden from external observers. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations using SAP BusinessObjects platforms where the SDK components might be accessible to users who should not have access to such detailed system information, creating potential privilege escalation pathways.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-2467 should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and error handling mechanisms within the SAP BusinessObjects platform. Organizations must ensure that all error responses are sanitized to remove any path or system information before being returned to clients. This approach aligns with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top 10 and follows the principle of least information disclosure. SAP has released patches and updates addressing this vulnerability in later versions of the business intelligence platform, making it essential for organizations to apply these updates promptly. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to restrict access to the SDK components, particularly in environments where development tools might be exposed to untrusted users or external networks, thereby reducing the attack surface and limiting potential exploitation opportunities.