CVE-2018-9081 in NAS
Summary
by MITRE
For some Iomega, Lenovo, LenovoEMC NAS devices versions 4.1.402.34662 and earlier, the file name used for assets accessible through the Content Viewer application are vulnerable to self cross-site scripting self-XSS. As a result, adversaries can add files to shares accessible from the Content Viewer with a cross site scripting payload in its name, and wait for a user to try and rename the file for their payload to trigger.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/28/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9081 affects specific Iomega, Lenovo, and LenovoEMC network-attached storage devices running firmware versions 4.1.402.34662 and earlier. This security flaw resides within the Content Viewer application component of these NAS devices, creating a self-cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a significant risk to organizational security infrastructures. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the file naming functionality, allowing malicious actors to exploit a fundamental weakness in how these devices handle file metadata.
The technical exploitation mechanism operates through a sophisticated attack vector that leverages the self-XSS vulnerability pattern. Adversaries can upload files to shared storage areas with malicious cross-site scripting payloads embedded within the file names themselves. The vulnerability becomes active when legitimate users attempt to rename these files through the Content Viewer interface, triggering the malicious script execution within the user's browser context. This particular attack methodology follows the CWE-79 pattern for cross-site scripting vulnerabilities, specifically demonstrating a self-XSS implementation where the payload is stored in the server-side file system and executed when users interact with the file naming functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides adversaries with a persistent attack surface that can be leveraged for various malicious activities. When users interact with compromised files through the Content Viewer application, the stored XSS payload executes in their browser, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious websites. The vulnerability's persistence is particularly concerning because the malicious payload remains embedded in the file system and can affect multiple users over time, creating a sustained threat vector that doesn't require repeated exploitation attempts. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for credential access through social engineering, as it exploits user interaction with legitimate file operations.
Organizations utilizing affected NAS devices face significant risks from this vulnerability, particularly in environments where users regularly interact with shared file systems through the Content Viewer application. The attack requires minimal privileges to initiate, as adversaries only need upload access to shares, making it an attractive vector for both external attackers and insider threats. Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates to versions that address the XSS vulnerability, alongside network segmentation to limit access to affected shares. Additionally, implementing strict file naming policies and user education regarding suspicious file interactions can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation in web applications and storage systems, as it demonstrates how seemingly benign file operations can become attack vectors when proper sanitization mechanisms are absent, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-160 and OWASP Top 10 security guidelines.