CVE-2019-11445 in OpenKM
Summary
by MITRE
OpenKM 6.3.2 through 6.3.7 allows an attacker to upload a malicious JSP file into the /okm:root directories and move that file to the home directory of the site, via frontend/FileUpload and admin/repository_export.jsp. This is achieved by interfering with the Filesystem path control in the admin's Export field. As a result, attackers can gain remote code execution through the application server with root privileges.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2019-11445 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in OpenKM document management system versions 6.3.2 through 6.3.7. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path control mechanisms within the application's file upload and export functionalities. The flaw specifically affects the frontend/FileUpload component and admin/repository_export.jsp endpoint, creating a pathway for malicious actors to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to upload malicious JSP files directly into the application's root directory structure, bypassing normal security controls that should prevent such unauthorized file placement.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves manipulating the filesystem path control mechanisms within the administrative export field. Attackers can craft malicious requests that interfere with the normal path validation processes, allowing them to place JSP files in the /okm:root directories and subsequently move these files to the site's home directory. This path manipulation technique directly violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the application's access control implementation. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which specifically addresses the issue of insufficient path validation that allows attackers to traverse directories and place files in unauthorized locations. The weakness creates a direct pathway for privilege escalation from standard user access to root-level execution privileges on the application server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations using affected OpenKM versions. Successful exploitation enables attackers to achieve complete system compromise, as the uploaded JSP files can execute with the privileges of the application server process, typically running with elevated permissions. This remote code execution capability allows attackers to perform reconnaissance, establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire document management system, as attackers can modify, delete, or access any content stored within the application. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: Java and T1078.004 for Valid Accounts: Default Accounts, as attackers can leverage the application's legitimate administrative functions to achieve their malicious objectives.
Organizations affected by CVE-2019-11445 should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their systems. The primary recommendation involves applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates that address the specific path control vulnerabilities in the file upload and export functionality. Additionally, implementing strict file type validation and content scanning mechanisms can prevent malicious JSP files from being uploaded even if path control is bypassed. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enforced to limit administrative access to only trusted personnel and systems. The application should be configured to run with minimal required privileges, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify any potential path traversal vulnerabilities. Organizations should also implement monitoring solutions that can detect unusual file upload patterns or attempts to manipulate administrative export functions, as these activities often precede successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of input validation and proper access control implementation in enterprise applications, particularly those handling sensitive document management functions.