CVE-2019-7300 in Artica
Summary
by MITRE
Artica Proxy 3.06.200056 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands as root by reading the ressources/settings.inc ldap_admin and ldap_password fields, using these credentials at logon.php, and then entering the commands in the admin.index.php command-line field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-7300 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Artica Proxy version 3.06.200056. This vulnerability stems from improper credential handling and insufficient input validation within the web-based administrative interface. The flaw exists in the application's authentication and command execution mechanisms, creating a pathway for remote attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary system commands with root-level permissions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to bypass normal authentication procedures and gain direct control over the underlying operating system through the administrative web interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves multiple attack vectors that must be exploited in sequence. Attackers begin by identifying the ressources/settings.inc file which contains hardcoded LDAP administrative credentials including ldap_admin and ldap_password fields. These credentials are then used to authenticate against the logon.php endpoint, establishing a valid administrative session. Once authenticated, the attacker can navigate to the admin.index.php interface where a command-line field exists that accepts user input without proper sanitization or validation. This field directly executes commands on the system, allowing arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the root user. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate privilege separation between authentication and command execution components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Successful exploitation enables attackers to modify system configurations, install malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, and establish persistent access to the compromised infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the entire Artica Proxy deployment since it operates at the administrative level and leverages legitimate authentication mechanisms. Organizations using this software face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The attack requires minimal technical expertise to execute, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that may not have robust network segmentation or monitoring in place.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-7300 should focus on immediate patching of the affected Artica Proxy version, as well as implementing multiple layers of defense. Organizations should immediately update to a patched version of the software to address the credential exposure and command execution vulnerabilities. Network segmentation should be implemented to isolate the Artica Proxy from critical systems, reducing potential impact from successful exploitation. Input validation and sanitization should be enhanced throughout the application to prevent command injection attacks. Access controls should be strengthened to limit administrative access to trusted networks and users only. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-89 categories related to command injection and improper input validation, while also mapping to ATT&CK techniques such as T1059 for command and script execution and T1078 for valid accounts. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar credential handling flaws in other applications within the organization's infrastructure.