CVE-2019-3489 in Content Manager
Summary
by MITRE
An unauthenticated file upload vulnerability has been identified in the Web Client component of Micro Focus Content Manager 9.1, 9.2, and 9.3 when configured to use the ADFS authentication method. The vulnerability could be exploited by an unauthenticated remote attacker to upload content to arbitrary locations on the Content Manager server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2023
The vulnerability identified in CVE-2019-3489 represents a critical security flaw within the Micro Focus Content Manager web client component affecting versions 9.1, 9.2, and 9.3. This issue specifically manifests when the system is configured to utilize Active Directory Federation Services authentication method, creating a dangerous attack vector for unauthenticated remote adversaries. The flaw allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and upload malicious files directly to arbitrary locations on the target server, fundamentally compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the content management infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the web client's file upload functionality. When ADFS authentication is enabled, the system fails to properly verify the authenticity of file upload requests, enabling attackers to manipulate the upload process without proper credentials. This weakness operates at the application layer and can be classified under CWE-434, which specifically addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type." The vulnerability exploits the trust relationship between the web client and the underlying file system, allowing attackers to write files to locations that should normally be restricted to authorized users only.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, creating a comprehensive attack surface that can be leveraged for multiple malicious activities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can deploy web shells, backdoor scripts, or other malicious payloads that persist on the server and provide continued access to the compromised system. This capability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1105, which describes the use of remote access tools and persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability also enables potential privilege escalation scenarios where attackers can manipulate system files or configuration settings that control content manager operations, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-3489 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Micro Focus Content Manager versions, with administrators applying the vendor-provided security updates as soon as possible. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to the content manager web interfaces and restrict the exposure of ADFS authentication endpoints. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict file type validation, enforcing upload size limitations, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious upload requests. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper access control configuration and regular security assessments of authentication mechanisms, particularly when integrating third-party identity providers like ADFS. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file upload patterns and unauthorized access attempts to critical system directories, with incident response procedures established to address potential exploitation attempts.