CVE-2019-16758 in Services Monitor
Summary
by MITRE
In Lexmark Services Monitor 2.27.4.0.39 (running on TCP port 2070), a remote attacker can use a directory traversal technique using /../../../ or ..%2F..%2F..%2F to obtain local files on the host operating system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-16758 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Lexmark Services Monitor version 2.27.4.0.39 which operates on TCP port 2070. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the web application interface that processes user-supplied file paths without proper sanitization or authorization checks. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate file path parameters and access arbitrary files on the underlying operating system through specially crafted requests that exploit the directory traversal technique.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables attackers to navigate beyond the intended file system boundaries by utilizing sequences such as /../../../ or ..%2F..%2F..%2F in their requests. These patterns bypass normal path resolution mechanisms and allow unauthorized access to sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially system credentials stored within the monitored device's file system. The vulnerability exists at the application layer where user inputs are directly processed without proper validation, making it susceptible to path manipulation attacks that fall under the CWE-22 category of Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations relying on Lexmark printing solutions as it provides attackers with the ability to extract confidential information from the print server. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially enable further exploitation including privilege escalation, system compromise, or data exfiltration. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit this flaw from outside the network perimeter without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where print servers often serve as entry points for lateral movement.
The vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing) as attackers can use this flaw to gather system information that may aid in subsequent attacks. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation to isolate print server environments and restrict access to TCP port 2070 to authorized personnel only. Additionally, the mitigation strategy should include immediate patching of the affected Lexmark Services Monitor software, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block directory traversal attempts, and conducting comprehensive network scans to identify other potentially vulnerable systems running similar services. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in securing network services.