CVE-2018-7679 in Business Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Micro Focus Solutions Business Manager versions prior to 11.4 when ASP.NET is configured with execute permission on the virtual directories and does not validate the contents of user avatar images, could lead to remote code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7679 affects Micro Focus Solutions Business Manager versions before 11.4, presenting a critical security risk that stems from improper validation of user-uploaded avatar images within ASP.NET environments. This flaw occurs when virtual directories are configured with execute permissions, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to upload malicious files that can be executed on the server. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insufficient input validation and insecure file handling practices that have been documented in various security frameworks including CWE-434 which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type." The issue manifests when the application fails to properly validate the content and type of avatar images uploaded by users, enabling potential attackers to bypass security controls and upload executable content.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to leverage the execute permissions configured on virtual directories within the ASP.NET application environment. When users upload avatar images, the system does not adequately validate the file contents or enforce strict type checking, allowing malicious payloads to be uploaded and subsequently executed. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework category of T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents an attack vector through a public interface that allows arbitrary code execution. The flaw essentially creates a path for attackers to upload malicious files that can be interpreted and executed by the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-7679 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within the target environment. Once exploited, an attacker can gain the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system compromise, or further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects organizations using older versions of Micro Focus Business Manager where ASP.NET virtual directory execute permissions have not been properly configured or secured. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where business management applications are exposed to external networks and user interactions, as the attack surface is expanded through user avatar upload functionality.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to Micro Focus Business Manager version 11.4 or later, which contains the necessary security patches to address this vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should review and restrict execute permissions on virtual directories within ASP.NET configurations, ensuring that only necessary permissions are granted. The implementation of proper input validation and file type checking mechanisms should be enforced to prevent unauthorized file uploads. Security measures should include content validation of uploaded files, implementation of secure file upload practices, and regular security assessments of web applications. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring to detect anomalous behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project, which emphasizes the critical nature of input validation and file upload security controls.