CVE-2019-7618 in Code
Summary
by MITRE
A local file disclosure flaw was found in Elastic Code versions 7.3.0, 7.3.1, and 7.3.2. If a malicious code repository is imported into Code it is possible to read arbitrary files from the local filesystem of the Kibana instance running Code with the permission of the Kibana system user.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-7618 represents a critical local file disclosure flaw affecting Elastic Code versions 7.3.0, 7.3.1, and 7.3.2. This vulnerability resides within the code repository import functionality of the Elastic Stack, specifically impacting the Kibana component that hosts the Elastic Code application. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization during the repository import process, creating a path traversal condition that allows unauthorized file access. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which directly relates to the insecure handling of file paths during repository import operations. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can leverage the import mechanism to read arbitrary files from the underlying filesystem, effectively bypassing normal access controls that should protect sensitive system resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious repository is imported into the Elastic Code environment. During the import process, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the file paths contained within the repository structure. This allows an attacker to craft repository content that includes path traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ that can navigate beyond the intended repository boundaries. The Kibana instance executes with elevated privileges as the system user, meaning that successful exploitation grants access to all files that the Kibana process can read, including configuration files, credential stores, application logs, and potentially system-sensitive data. This represents a severe privilege escalation vector since the attacker operates within the context of the Kibana service account rather than requiring direct system-level access.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-7618 extends far beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. Attackers can access sensitive configuration files that may contain database credentials, API keys, and encryption keys necessary for system operation. The vulnerability also enables access to application logs and audit trails that could reveal system architecture, user activities, and potentially other security weaknesses within the Elastic Stack environment. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Elastic Stack components often serve as central logging and monitoring platforms, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking to gain access to sensitive organizational data. The attack surface is further expanded through potential lateral movement opportunities, as access to system files might reveal additional attack vectors or system weaknesses.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to Elastic Code versions 7.3.3 or later, which contain patches addressing the path traversal vulnerability in repository import functionality. The remediation process should include thorough review and removal of any untrusted repositories from the Elastic Code environment, as well as implementation of strict access controls and monitoring for suspicious import activities. System administrators should also implement network segmentation to limit access to Kibana instances and consider deploying additional security controls such as web application firewalls to detect and block malicious path traversal attempts. From a security framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript and T1566.001 for Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers may use compromised repositories to deliver malicious payloads or exfiltrate data through legitimate import mechanisms. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components of the Elastic Stack and prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future releases.