CVE-2019-9614 in OFCMS
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in OFCMS before 1.1.3. A command execution vulnerability exists via a template file with '<#assign ex="freemarker.template.utility.Execute"?new()> ${ ex("' followed by the command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-9614 represents a critical command execution flaw within the OFCMS content management system prior to version 1.1.3. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper sanitization of template parameters, creating a dangerous attack vector that allows remote adversaries to execute arbitrary system commands on the affected server. The issue manifests through the manipulation of template files, specifically targeting the Freemarker templating engine which is integral to OFCMS's rendering process. The vulnerability's exploitation mechanism leverages the Freemarker template utility Execute function, which provides direct access to system command execution capabilities when improperly exposed to user-controllable input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the use of Freemarker's built-in utility functions through template injection techniques. Attackers can craft malicious template files containing the directive '<#assign ex="freemarker.template.utility.Execute"?new()> followed by command execution syntax, effectively bypassing normal security controls and gaining unauthorized access to the underlying operating system. This flaw operates at the template processing layer, where user-supplied template content is interpreted and executed without proper sanitization or access control measures. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple command execution to potentially allow full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-78 which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, while the ATT&CK framework would categorize this under T1059.001 for command and script interpreter execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-9614 is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to perform complete system compromise through remote code execution. Organizations running vulnerable versions of OFCMS face immediate risks including unauthorized access to server resources, potential data breaches, service disruption, and lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access or local credentials to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous in internet-facing applications. Additionally, the command execution capability allows attackers to establish persistent backdoors, install malware, and perform reconnaissance activities without detection. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the CMS system, potentially leading to complete service outages and regulatory compliance violations. Security teams must consider the broader implications of such a vulnerability, as it could enable attackers to pivot to other systems within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-9614 require immediate action including upgrading to OFCMS version 1.1.3 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the template injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures for all user-supplied template content, particularly focusing on preventing the injection of dangerous Freemarker directives. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enhanced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious template file modifications and unusual command execution patterns. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The implementation of web application firewalls and runtime application self-protection technologies can provide additional layers of defense against template injection attacks. Organizations should also establish secure coding practices and conduct regular security training for developers to prevent similar vulnerabilities in custom applications. System hardening measures including disabling unnecessary template processing features and implementing strict file permissions can further reduce the attack surface and potential impact of this vulnerability.