CVE-2018-6489 in Project
Summary
by MITRE
XML External Entity (XXE) vulnerability in Micro Focus Project and Portfolio Management Center, version 9.32. This vulnerability can be exploited to allow XML External Entity (XXE)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2020
The CVE-2018-6489 vulnerability represents a critical XML External Entity processing flaw within Micro Focus Project and Portfolio Management Center version 9.32. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-611 category, specifically addressing improper restriction of XML external entity references. The flaw exists in the application's handling of XML input data, where the system fails to properly validate and sanitize external entity references during XML parsing operations. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious XML payloads that include external entity declarations, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, server-side request forgery, or even remote code execution depending on the underlying system architecture. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a project management platform that likely processes sensitive business data, making it an attractive target for adversaries seeking to compromise enterprise environments.
The technical exploitation of this XXE vulnerability occurs when the application receives XML input that contains external entity references pointing to malicious resources. During XML parsing, the system resolves these external entities without proper validation, allowing attackers to access internal system resources, perform port scanning, or retrieve files from the server filesystem. The attack vector typically involves sending specially crafted XML data to the vulnerable application's endpoints that process XML inputs. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 which covers data from local system repositories and can be leveraged for lateral movement within compromised networks. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate XML parser configuration, where the application should have implemented proper restrictions on external entity resolution through secure XML parsing libraries or configuration parameters.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-6489 extends beyond simple data exposure, as it can enable attackers to perform reconnaissance activities against internal network resources. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially access sensitive project data, financial information, or proprietary business documents stored within the application's database. The vulnerability also poses risks for privilege escalation if the application runs with elevated permissions or if the XML processing functionality allows access to system-level resources. Organizations using this version of Micro Focus Project and Portfolio Management Center face potential regulatory compliance violations if sensitive data is compromised, particularly in industries subject to data protection regulations such as healthcare, finance, or government sectors. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to significant business disruption, reputational damage, and potential financial losses due to data breaches or system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-6489 should focus on implementing secure XML parsing practices and updating the affected software to patched versions. Organizations must ensure that XML parsers are configured to disable external entity resolution and DTD processing entirely, which can be achieved through proper parameter settings in the XML processing libraries. The recommended approach includes upgrading to Micro Focus Project and Portfolio Management Center version 9.33 or later, which contains the necessary security patches. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls should be deployed to limit access to vulnerable endpoints and monitor for suspicious XML traffic patterns. Security teams should also implement input validation controls and conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar weaknesses in other applications within the enterprise environment. According to NIST guidelines for secure coding practices, this vulnerability underscores the importance of implementing proper XML security controls and following the principle of least privilege when processing external data inputs.