CVE-2019-17312 in SugarCRM
Summary
by MITRE
SugarCRM before 8.0.4 and 9.x before 9.0.2 allows directory traversal in the file function by a Regular user.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-17312 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within SugarCRM versions prior to 8.0.4 and 9.x versions prior to 9.0.2. This security weakness specifically affects the file handling functionality of the CRM system and can be exploited by regular users who do not possess administrative privileges. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the file processing mechanisms, allowing authenticated users to manipulate file paths and access restricted directories on the server filesystem. Directory traversal vulnerabilities of this nature typically arise when applications fail to properly validate user-supplied input before using it in file system operations, creating opportunities for attackers to navigate beyond intended directories and potentially access sensitive system files or data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the file function of SugarCRM where user input is processed without adequate security controls to prevent path manipulation. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious file requests that include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ which bypass normal file access controls. When a regular user submits a request containing these traversal sequences, the application processes the input without proper validation, allowing the attacker to access files outside of the intended directory structure. This flaw operates under the common weakness identified as CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, also known as path traversal or directory traversal. The vulnerability creates a significant security risk as it enables unauthorized access to potentially sensitive data, system configuration files, and other restricted resources that should normally be protected from regular user access.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-17312 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially lead to data breaches, system compromise, and information disclosure. Regular users who exploit this vulnerability can access not only CRM data but potentially system-level files that contain database credentials, application configuration details, or other sensitive information. This access can facilitate further exploitation attempts, including privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where SugarCRM systems often contain sensitive customer data, business information, and proprietary corporate details. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the attack pattern taxonomy under the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically relating to privilege escalation and credential access tactics that leverage path traversal vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to system resources.
Organizations utilizing affected SugarCRM versions should implement immediate mitigation measures to address this vulnerability. The primary remediation involves upgrading to SugarCRM versions 8.0.4 or later and 9.0.2 or later, which contain the necessary security patches to prevent directory traversal attacks. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization controls within the application code can provide defense-in-depth measures. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file access patterns and directory traversal attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in application security design, as regular users should never be granted access to system-level file operations that could compromise the integrity of the entire system. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for regular security updates and comprehensive vulnerability management programs to protect enterprise applications from known security flaws.