CVE-2020-13852 in Pandora FMS
Summary
by MITRE
Artica Pandora FMS 7.44 allows arbitrary file upload (leading to remote command execution) via the File Manager feature.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-13852 affects Artica Pandora FMS version 7.44 and represents a critical security flaw that enables attackers to upload arbitrary files to the target system through the File Manager functionality. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure file upload mechanisms, which is classified as CWE-434 within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The flaw exists due to insufficient validation and sanitization of file uploads, allowing malicious actors to bypass security controls and execute arbitrary commands on the affected system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the File Manager component of Pandora FMS. When users upload files through the web interface, the application fails to properly verify file types, extensions, or content, creating an opportunity for attackers to upload malicious files such as web shells or executable scripts. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for remote code execution without requiring authentication, meaning that any user with access to the File Manager interface can potentially compromise the entire system. This represents a severe privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by both authenticated and unauthenticated attackers depending on the system configuration.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-13852 extends far beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised system. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious file, they can execute commands with the privileges of the web application user, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including direct web interface access, automated scanning tools, or social engineering campaigns that trick administrators into uploading malicious files. This threat model aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter execution.
Organizations running Pandora FMS 7.44 should immediately implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability. The primary mitigation involves applying the official security patches released by Artica, which address the file upload validation issues. Additionally, implementing proper file type restrictions, content validation, and upload directory permissions can significantly reduce the attack surface. Network segmentation and monitoring of file upload activities should be implemented to detect suspicious behavior. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper access controls, principles that align with security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in their infrastructure, as this flaw represents a common pattern in web application security that affects numerous systems across different vendors and platforms.